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