Speedy justice eludes consumers seeking redress against sellers, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• As of January 30, 2024, 5.43 lakh consumer complaints were pending in Indian consumer courts.
• In 2024, 1.73 lakh new cases were filed, while only 1.58 lakh cases were resolved, increasing the backlog.
• Up to July 2025, 78,031 new complaints were filed, with 65,537 cases being disposed of.
• The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 mandates resolution within 3-5 months, but this is often not met.
• Vacancies exacerbate delays, with numerous posts of President and Member vacant at State and district levels.

Detailed Insights:

• The promise of speedy justice for consumers is hampered by prolonged litigation in consumer courts.
• Cases are delayed due to structural issues like insufficient staff, lack of modern facilities, and ineffective case management.
• Vacancies in judicial and non-judicial posts, limited courtrooms, and logistical constraints impede timely hearings.
• Many commission members lack subject-matter expertise, necessitating expert opinions and causing adjournments.
• Procedural hurdles such as non-service of notices and late filing of affidavits also contribute to delays.
• Section 38(7) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 mandates specific timelines for resolving consumer complaints.
• The Act discourages delays, stating adjournments should only be granted with sufficient cause and written reasons.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Consumer Protection Act, 2019: Indian law protecting consumer rights and providing mechanisms for grievance redressal.
• Consumer Courts: Quasi-judicial bodies established to provide speedy and inexpensive resolution of consumer disputes.
• Redressal: The act of setting right a wrong; seeking compensation or remedy for a grievance.