The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 replaced the earlier 1986 Act and provides enhanced protection to consumers in India. It defines consumer rights and establishes a three-tier quasi-judicial machinery for dispute resolution.
Key rights under the Act include: right to be protected against hazardous goods and services, right to be informed about quality and price, right to choose from a variety of goods, right to be heard in case of complaints, and right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices.
The Act covers both goods and services, including e-commerce transactions. It introduces concepts like product liability, unfair contracts, and penalties for misleading advertisements.
Consumers can approach District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forums, State Commissions, or the National Commission depending on the value of goods or services and compensation claimed.