Jurisdiction of the State Commission: A Comprehensive Overview Consumer Protection Act in India

The State Commission plays a pivotal role in the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, overseeing consumer disputes in its jurisdiction. It handles complaints that fall within its ambit and has the authority to hear appeals against orders passed by District Forums. Additionally, the State Commission can intervene in cases where the District Forum has exceeded its jurisdiction or acted irregularly.

This article delves into the jurisdiction of the State Commission, covering its powers, functions, and operational procedures as per the law.

1. Jurisdiction of the State Commission

Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, the State Commission has jurisdiction over the following matters:

(a) To Entertain Complaints and Appeals

1. Complaints Involving Goods or Services Between ₹20 Lakhs and ₹1 Crore: The State Commission has jurisdiction to entertain complaints where the value of goods or services (along with compensation, if any) exceeds ₹20 lakhs but does not exceed ₹1 crore. These complaints, typically more complex or involving higher amounts of money, fall under the purview of the State Commission due to their significant nature.
2. Appeals Against Orders of District Forums: The State Commission also hears appeals against the orders passed by any District Forum within the State. If a party is dissatisfied with the decision of the District Forum, they can approach the State Commission within the stipulated period, usually 30 days, to challenge the order.

(b) Supervision and Calling for Records

The State Commission can exercise supervisory powers over District Forums within its jurisdiction. It can:

• Call for Records: The State Commission has the power to call for the records of any consumer dispute pending before or already decided by a District Forum within the State.
• Pass Appropriate Orders: Upon examining the records, the State Commission can pass orders in cases where a District Forum has:
  • Exercised jurisdiction not vested in it by law,
  • Failed to exercise jurisdiction it is empowered with,
  • Acted with material irregularity or unlawfully.

These powers ensure that the District Forums are operating within the scope of their legal authority and that justice is served in compliance with the law.

2. Venue of Filing a Complaint in the State Commission

A consumer complaint can be instituted in the State Commission within the jurisdiction of which:

(a) The Opposite Party Resides or Carries on Business

The State Commission has jurisdiction if the opposite party (defendant) resides, carries on business, or has a branch office in the State. This applies whether there is one or multiple opposite parties involved.

(b) The Cause of Action Arises

A complaint can also be filed in the State Commission if the cause of action (the reason for filing the complaint) arises, wholly or in part, within the State. This provision ensures that the complainant can access the forum closest to where the dispute occurred, minimizing inconvenience.

(c) Permission for Multiple Opposite Parties

In cases where the complaint involves multiple opposite parties, the complaint can be instituted in the jurisdiction where any of the opposite parties resides or carries on business, provided:

• Permission of the State Commission is sought, or
• Consent of the opposite parties who do not fall within the jurisdiction is obtained.

This flexibility allows the complainant to file the complaint in a convenient location without being restricted to one particular jurisdiction.

3. Transfer of Cases

The State Commission has the authority to transfer complaints pending before a District Forum to another District Forum within the same State. This can be done at any stage of the proceedings, either upon the application of the complainant or suo-motu (on its own motion). This provision ensures that the interest of justice is served, particularly in cases where:

• The District Forum is unable to conduct the hearing due to any reason,
• The case is not being handled efficiently, or
• The case involves any logistical or practical issues.

4. Circuit Benches

To ensure efficient functioning and easier access for consumers across the State, the State Commission may operate not only in the State Capital but also at other locations as notified by the State Government. These circuit benches allow consumers from different parts of the State to have their cases heard without having to travel long distances, promoting access to justice.

The locations of these circuit benches are notified in the Official Gazette, and the State Commission, in consultation with the State Government, decides where the benches should function. This decentralization of operations helps to ease the burden on the State Capital and ensures quicker resolution of cases.

5. Conclusion

The jurisdiction of the State Commission is wide-ranging and covers critical functions such as the entertainment of consumer complaints (involving goods and services worth ₹20 lakhs to ₹1 crore), hearing appeals from the District Forum, and supervising the legality and correctness of the decisions passed by District Forums within the State. Moreover, the provisions for transferring cases and operating circuit benches further enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of the State Commission in serving consumers.

If you find yourself in need of assistance with filing a complaint, appealing a District Forum’s decision, or any other consumer-related legal matter, Legal Light Consulting is here to help. Our team of experienced professionals offers expert legal guidance, including helping you navigate the complexities of the State Commission’s jurisdiction, ensuring your case is handled efficiently and effectively.

For all your consumer protection needs, Legal Light Consulting is the trusted partner you need to get the justice you deserve. Contact us today for personalized legal assistance