The Indian Supreme Court has recently voiced its dissatisfaction regarding the delayed filling of vacant positions in the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) and State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions. The court has given directives to the central and state governments to expedite the process and ensure completion within the next eight weeks.
Background of the Case
The Supreme Court was hearing a suo motu case concerning the lack of action in appointing presidents, members, and staff for Districts and State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions throughout India. The delays are seen as detrimental to consumers, as the redressal of disputes is being unnecessarily prolonged. The court has also instructed the Central government to provide a legislative impact study on the Consumer Protection Act 2019 within one month. This is the third time within a fortnight that the Supreme Court has expressed concerns about vacancies in courts, tribunals, and dispute resolution bodies across the country.
About the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC)
Established in 1988 under the Consumer Protection Act of 1986, the NCDRC is a quasi-judicial commission based in New Delhi. Its leader is a sitting or retired judge of the Supreme Court of India. The Consumer Protection Act of 1986 established a three-tier consumer dispute redressal mechanism at the national (NCDRC), State, and District levels. The newer Consumer Protection Act 2019 introduced the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), an entity primarily focused on advocating for, safeguarding, and enforcing consumer rights.
Understanding a Legislative Impact Study
A Legislative Impact Study, also known as an Assessment, is a research undertaking that evaluates the effects of a law on society over a specified timeline. Such studies estimate potential impacts of proposed legislation and government policies before and after their enactment.
For example, a Legislative Impact Study might explore potential effects on litigation, manpower needs, and infrastructure requirements. It compares potential outcomes with various policy designs to ascertain which produces the best results.
Once a law is made, the responsibility of the Parliament does not end. It must also determine whether the law is achieving its intended objectives and fulfilling the needs for which it was enacted.
The Supreme Court’s recent directives indicate a robust emphasis on expediting the appointment process for consumer dispute redressal commissions. Additionally, this case demonstrates the importance of Legislative Impact Studies in ensuring that legislation is effective in meeting its objectives.