23) Consumer Protection Act, 2019

Question 1

Context ?

Answer 1

CPA, 2019 has come into force replacing CPA, 1986

Question 2

Key features of CPA 2019 ?

Answer 2

Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) – It has been setup to promote, protect and enforce the rights of the consumer by inquiring into violations of consumer rights

Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission (CDRCs) – Will be setup at district, state and national levels

Alternate Dispute Resolution Mechanism of Mediation – A complaint will be referred by a Consumer Commission for Mediation wherever scope for early settlement exists and parties agree for it

Question 3

Key differences ?

Answer 3

1) Regulator
Old –> NO
New –> CCPA

2) Consumer court
Old –> Complaint could be filled in consumer court where the defendants office is located
New –> Complaint can be filed in a consumer court where complainant resides or works

3) Product liability
Old –> No provision. Only approaching civil court
New –> Consumer can seek compensation

4) Pecuniary jurisdiction
Old –> Dist (20 lakh), State (1cr), National (>1cr)
New –> Dist (1cr) , State (10cr) , National (>10cr)

5) E-commerce
Old –> No provision
New –> All rules of direct selling apply to e-commerce