The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 allows a consumer to seek a refund, replacement, compensation and costs for defective goods or deficient services, including insurance, banking, builders, hospitals, courier and e-commerce.
Which Commission
Jurisdiction depends on the value of the goods or services paid for:
- District Commission: up to Rs 50 lakh;
- State Commission: above Rs 50 lakh and up to Rs 2 crore;
- National Commission: above Rs 2 crore.
Where to file
The complaint can be filed where the opposite party resides or works, where the cause of action arose, or where the complainant resides or personally works.
Time limit
A complaint must be filed within two years of the cause of action under Section 69. Delay can be condoned for sufficient cause.
Online filing
Complaints can be filed online on the e-Daakhil portal. No fee is payable for claims up to Rs 5 lakh.
Before filing
- send a written complaint or legal notice to the company and keep the reply;
- keep the bill, policy, agreement, warranty card and correspondence;
- calculate the amount claimed, including compensation and costs.
This article is general information on the law as it stood when written. It is not legal advice. Every service matter turns on its own service record, rules and orders, which should be examined before any step is taken.