Consumer Protection Act
The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 replaces the 1986 act. It empowers consumers with the right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices, defective goods, and deficiency in services.
E-Commerce under Scrutiny
The Act of 2019 introduces specific rules for electronic commerce, holding platforms accountable for authenticity of products and services sold online, a significant leap from previous laws.
Unfair Trade Practices Defined
Unfair trade practices now include sharing personal information given in confidence, unless required by law. This enhances consumer privacy beyond just transactional fairness.
Six Consumer Rights
Consumers have six basic rights: the right to be informed, to choose, to be heard, to redress, to consumer education, and to a healthy environment.
Product Liability Provision
Manufacturers are now expressly liable if their product is defective. Consumers don't need to prove negligence, a shift from the earlier consumer protection framework.
Establishment of CCPA
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) was established to regulate matters relating to consumer rights, unfair trade practices, and false or misleading advertisements.
Suo Motu Actions
The CCPA can take suo motu actions for mass consumer issues, allowing proactive governance rather than relying solely on consumer complaints.
What does the 2019 Act replace?
Consumer Rights Act, 2015
Consumer Protection Act, 1986
E-Commerce Act, 2001
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