India observes National Consumer Rights Day annually on 24th December to heighten public consciousness about consumer rights and obligations. The significant day marks the occasion when the President approved the Consumer Protection Act, 1986. This law intends to safeguard consumers from defective commodities, negligent services, and unjust trade practices. The Consumer Protection Act encompasses six fundamental rights, namely the Right to Safety, the Right to Choose, the Right to be Informed, the Right to be Heard, the Right to Seek Redressal, and the Right to Consumer Education. The Parliament passed the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 to supplant the Consumer Protection Act 1986. Additionally, World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated worldwide on 15th March.
The Significance of National Consumer Rights Day
National Consumer Rights Day holds immense importance in India as it underscores the need to make every consumer aware of their rights and responsibilities. It is a day dedicated to raising awareness about consumer protection laws and encouraging consumers to make informed decisions.
Commemorating the Approval of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986
The significance of 24th December emanates from the day in history when the President of India assented to the Consumer Protection Act in 1986. The Act was a significant stride toward protecting consumers from unfair trade practices, substandard goods, and negligent services.
Recognizing the Six Fundamental Rights in the Consumer Protection Act
The Consumer Protection Act ensures that consumers in the country are treated fairly and are not at the mercy of unscrupulous businesses. The Act provides for six fundamental rights. These include the Right to Safety, ensuring protection against hazardous goods and services; the Right to Choose, enabling consumers to select from a variety of products and services at competitive prices; the Right to be Informed, providing consumers with factual information to make informed choices; the Right to be Heard, allowing consumers to express their opinions to influence decision-making; the Right to Seek Redressal, ensuring that consumers have access to seek compensation in case of unfair trade practices; and the Right to Consumer Education.
The Introduction of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019
In a bid to strengthen consumer rights further, the Parliament enacted the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, replacing the previous act of 1986. The new act introduced various progressive measures to protect consumers. It has broader provisions, covering online transactions and telemarketing, recognizing modern business practices and technological advancements.
Observing World Consumer Rights Day
Alongside National Consumer Rights Day, World Consumer Rights Day is observed globally on 15th March. This day serves as a platform to intensify global attention on consumer rights and needs, preserving the rights of all consumers worldwide and demanding respect and protection of those rights.