Powers of the District Forum to Provide Relief to Consumers
Powers of the District Forum to Provide Relief to Consumers in India
The District Forum, as a quasi-judicial body, has the power to grant a variety of reliefs to consumers who have been wronged. These reliefs are designed to redress the harm caused by defective goods or deficient services.
Key Reliefs Granted by District Forums:
Remedial Orders:
- Repair or Replacement: The Forum can order the seller or service provider to repair or replace defective goods or services.
- Refund: The Forum can order a refund of the price paid by the consumer.
- Compensation: The Forum can award compensation for any loss or injury suffered by the consumer due to the defect or deficiency.
- Discontinuation of Unfair Practices: The Forum can order the cessation of unfair trade practices.
- Corrective Advertising: In cases of misleading advertising, the Forum can order the publication of corrective advertisements.
Punitive Damages:
- In cases of egregious misconduct, the Forum can award punitive damages to deter such behavior.
Cost Awards:
- The Forum can order the losing party to pay the costs of the proceedings.
The District Forum’s Procedural Powers:
- Conducting Hearings: The Forum can conduct hearings, summon witnesses, and examine evidence.
- Issuing Orders: The Forum has the power to issue orders to compel compliance with its decisions.
- Seeking Expert Opinions: The Forum can seek expert opinions on technical matters.
- Imposing Penalties: The Forum can impose penalties for non-compliance with its orders.
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