Consumer Protection Council and State Consumer Protection Council

Consumer Protection Act, 2019 has established various mechanisms to promote and protect the rights of consumers in India. Two key bodies formed under this law are the Central Consumer Protection Council and the State Consumer Protection Council, which act as advisory bodies to protect consumer interests. These councils are tasked with addressing issues faced by consumers and promoting consumer rights through various initiatives.

Central Consumer Protection Council (CCPC):

The Central Consumer Protection Council is the apex body at the national level responsible for advising the central government on matters related to the protection and promotion of consumer rights.

Composition:

• Chairperson:

Minister in charge of Consumer Affairs in the Central Government serves as the Chairperson.

• Members:

Council consists of a set number of other official and non-official members who represent different sectors. These members can include representatives from consumer organizations, government bodies, farmers, and industries. The exact composition and number of members are decided by the Central Government.

Objectives:

The primary purpose of the CCPC is to promote and protect the rights of consumers as defined under the Act.

1. Right to Safety: Protecting consumers from goods and services that can be hazardous to life and property.
2. Right to Information: Ensuring consumers have access to all necessary information about products and services, including prices, quality, and quantity.
3. Right to Choose: Ensuring the availability of a variety of goods and services at competitive prices.
4. Right to be Heard: Ensuring that consumer complaints are adequately addressed by appropriate forums.
5. Right to Seek Redressal: Providing mechanisms for consumers to seek compensation or redress for unfair trade practices.
6. Right to Consumer Education: Educating consumers on their rights and responsibilities.

Functions:

The CCPC is primarily an advisory body and performs the following key functions:

• Reviewing and recommending actions to promote consumer rights.
• Advising the government on policies to address issues related to the welfare and protection of consumers.
• Promoting consumer awareness programs and campaigns at the national level.
• Addressing unfair trade practices, misleading advertisements, and promoting transparency.

The Central Consumer Protection Council meets at least once a year.

State Consumer Protection Council (SCPC)

State Consumer Protection Council is established at the state level to perform similar functions as the Central Council but within the jurisdiction of individual states.

Composition:

• Chairperson:

Minister in charge of Consumer Affairs in the State Government serves as the Chairperson.

• Members:

The council consists of other official and non-official members who are appointed by the State Government. These members represent various sectors such as consumers, government officials, businesses, and others.

Objectives:

The objectives of the State Consumer Protection Council are aligned with those of the Central Council, with a focus on state-level consumer issues.

1. Advocacy for Consumer Rights: Ensuring consumers in the state are aware of their rights and that these rights are protected.

2. Addressing Local Consumer issues: Identifying and addressing issues faced by consumers specific to the state, such as regional trade practices or local disputes.
3. Promotion of Fair Trade: Encouraging fair and transparent business practices within the state.
4. Handling State-Level Complaints: Ensuring that consumer complaints are heard and resolved through state forums.

Functions:

The SCPC performs several advisory and educational roles at the state level, including:

• Advising the state government on matters related to consumer protection.
• Promoting the enforcement of consumer rights and laws within the state.
• Ensuring the proper functioning of state consumer dispute redressal forums.
• Organizing campaigns to educate consumers on their rights and responsibilities.
• Advising on policies to reduce unfair trade practices and enhance consumer protection.