Introduction

The Consumer Protection Act establishes special forums to resolve consumer disputes quickly and efficiently. These forums are called Consumer Commissions.

The Act follows a three-tier system, meaning disputes can be handled at the district, state, and national levels depending on the nature and value of the claim.

Meaning / Definition

Consumer Commissions are quasi-judicial bodies (bodies that perform functions similar to courts) created under the Consumer Protection Act to hear and decide consumer complaints.

These commissions provide an alternative remedy to consumers. This means consumers may approach these forums instead of filing a case in ordinary civil courts.

Modes or Types

District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (District Commission)

The District Commission (DCDRC) functions at the district level.

It is the first level where most consumer complaints are filed. State governments establish these commissions to resolve consumer disputes within their districts.

State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (State Commission)

The State Commission (SCDRC) functions at the state level.

It hears:

• appeals against the decisions of the District Commissions, and
• consumer disputes that fall within its jurisdiction.

State governments establish State Commissions for each state.

National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (National Commission)

The National Commission (NCDRC) is the highest consumer dispute authority under the Consumer Protection Act.

It hears:

• appeals against decisions of State Commissions, and
• consumer disputes that fall within its jurisdiction.

The National Commission is established by the Central Government.

Distinction / Comparison

| Basis | District Commission | State Commission | National Commission | |------|------|------| | Level | District level | State level | National level | | Established by | State Government | State Government | Central Government | | Role | First forum for consumer complaints | Hears appeals from District Commission and certain disputes | Hears appeals from State Commission and major disputes |

Practical Example

Suppose a consumer buys a refrigerator that turns out to be defective. The consumer may file a complaint before the District Commission.

If the consumer is not satisfied with the decision of the District Commission, they may appeal to the State Commission. If still dissatisfied, they may further appeal to the National Commission.

Summary

• The Consumer Protection Act establishes a three-tier system for resolving consumer disputes.
• The three levels are District Commission, State Commission, and National Commission.
• District and State Commissions are established by State Governments.
• The National Commission is established by the Central Government.
• Consumer Commissions provide an alternative remedy and do not remove the jurisdiction of civil courts.
• Section 100 of the Act states that the provisions of the Consumer Protection Act are in addition to and not in place of other laws.