CONSUMER PROTECTION COUNCIL (CPC)

AUTHOR – DEV KUMAR SHARMA, A STUDENT AT INDIA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF LEGAL EDUCATION AND RESEARCH, GOA

BEST CITATION – DEV KUMAR SHARMA, CONSUMER PROTECTION COUNCIL (CPC), ILE LEX SPECULUM (ILE LS), 1 (1) OF 2023, PG. 276-281, APIS – 3920 – 0036 | ISBN – 978-81-964391-3-2

Abstract –

A consumer refers to an individual or a collective entity that purchases products and services primarily for personal use, as opposed to acquiring them for production or subsequent resale. According to Section 2(7) of the Consumer Protection Act of 2019, a consumer is legally characterized as an individual who engages in the purchase of goods or services by providing consideration, and thereafter utilizes these products or services for personal use, resale, or business purposes. The significance of consumer protection has grown in tandem with the rise of consumerism and the widespread availability of goods and services within the contemporary global economy. Numerous nations have implemented regulatory bodies commonly called Consumer Protection Councils (CPCs) to safeguard consumer rights and well-being. This article aims to present a comprehensive examination of Consumer Protection Councils, encompassing their responsibilities, roles, and significance in safeguarding consumer rights. The Consumer Protection Council offers impartial legal counsel and assistance to consumers. The individuals comprising this group are professionals in the field of consumer protection, representing various sectors within the business community. They engage in collaboration to offer impartial and objective guidance and assistance in addressing consumer-related issues. In addition, the council endeavors to enhance consumer consciousness regarding their entitlements and safeguard businesses against unjust customer behaviors. This study examines the historical development of consumer protection, the establishment of Consumer Protection Commissions (CPCs), their structural framework, and the methodologies employed in handling customer grievances. Moreover, this research examines the challenges encountered by Crisis Pregnancy Centres (CPCs) and explores viable strategies to address these concerns.

Keywords- consumer protection council, consumer, consumer protection act, consumer awareness, consumer welfare