Consumer Protection Bill

Why is it in news?
  • Parliament has approved the Consumer Protection Bill, 2019.
More in news
  • The Bill will replace the Consumer Protection Act, 1986.
  • Amid opposition healthcare has been dropped from the bill.
  • Features of the Bill
(1) To strengthen the rights of consumers.
(2) Establishment of authorities for the timely and effective administration and settlement of consumer disputes.
(3) Provide a mechanism for the redressal of consumer complaints regarding defects in goods anddeficiency in services.
(4) Strict penalties, including jail term for adulteration and misleading advertisements by companies.
  • What opposition has to say
(1) It demandedreferring the Bill to a select committee.
(2) Assault on federalism: As executive powers are with the Centre but the financial burden is put on the states as the states have the onus of setting up commissions.
Source
The Hindu, Indian Express




Posted by Jawwad Kazi on 7th Aug 2019