Consumer Disputes Redressal Agencies in India

The Consumer Protection Act, has established a three-tier system of Consumer Disputes Redressal Agencies (CDRAs) to provide speedy and effective redressal of consumer grievances. These agencies are responsible for adjudicating disputes between consumers and service providers or manufacturers.

Here’s a breakdown of the three-tier system:

1. District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum (DCDRF)

• Jurisdiction: Handles cases where the value of the claim does not exceed ₹1 crore.
• Composition: Consists of a President and two other members, one of whom should be a woman.
• Appeal: An appeal against the order of the DCDRF can be filed in the State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission.

2. State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (SCDRC)

• Jurisdiction: Handles cases where the value of the claim exceeds ₹1 crore but does not exceed ₹10 crore. It also hears appeals from the orders of the District Forums within its territorial jurisdiction.
• Composition: Consists of a President and two other members, one of whom should be a woman.
• Appeal: An appeal against the order of the SCDRC can be filed in the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission.

3. National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC)

• Jurisdiction: Handles cases where the value of the claim exceeds ₹10 crore. It also hears appeals from the orders of the State Commissions.
• Composition: Consists of a President and four other members, two of whom should be women.
• Appeal: An appeal against the order of the NCDRC can be filed in the Supreme Court.

Note: These pecuniary jurisdiction limits were revised in 2019 to enhance the scope of consumer protection.

Key Points to Remember:

• Consumers can file complaints against manufacturers, traders, or service providers.
• The complaint must be filed within a specified time limit, usually two years from the date of the cause of action.
• The consumer can file a complaint either in person or through a registered post.
• The consumer may be represented by a legal practitioner or may appear in person.
• The consumer dispute redressal agencies are empowered to provide various reliefs, including:
  • Refund of the price paid
  • Replacement of the defective goods
  • Repair of the defective goods
  • Compensation for loss or injury
  • Removal of deficiency in service
  • Cease and desist orders against unfair trade practices

By understanding the structure and jurisdiction of these consumer forums, consumers can effectively protect their rights and seek redressal for their grievances.