06,Feb 2024
India is the world's second-largest internet market, with over 800 million users and 125.94 lakh crore UPI transactions in 2022. In India, almost all pin codes have experienced the advent of e-commerce. In India, tier-two cities and smaller towns account for over 60% of transactions and orders.
As per the India Today report, there are more than 95,000 UPI fraud cases reported in 2022. Now, the biggest concern is ‘how you can stay safe in online shopping?’ Users who prefer online shopping to shopping from supermarkets or retail shops must be aware of the consumer rights for online shopping in India.
To gain an insightful view of the customer rights for online shopping in India – watch the video!
In 1986, the Consumer Protection Act came into effect. It resolves customer complaints quickly and easily. It protects and motivates customers to speak their concerns about deficiencies and defects in products and services. This forum's main goal is to assist both parties (consumers and manufacturers) and resolve legal proceedings.
The Consumer Protection Act 1986 covers all sorts of services and goods of private, public, and cooperative sectors except those which are exempted by the central government. The act gives consumers a platform to speak about their complaints, and then after the forum takes action against the offending supplier.
The Consumer Protection Act was brought into action to protect the rights of consumers in India. Moreover, it framed consumer councils and other authorities to resolve consumer issues. Under the Consumer Protection Act, Section 6 offers the following rights for consumers.
Right to Safety: The consumer is entitled to protection against goods that harm their life, health, or belongings.
Right to Be Informed: The correct information about the product must be given to the customer. Thus, he or she is free to decide whether or not to purchase it.
Right to Choose: The customer is free to purchase any products or services they like. Hence, unscrupulous means cannot be used to influence the buyer.
Right to Be Heard: In case, if something goes wrong, the customer has the right to make a complaint and be heard. Consequently, businesses offer customer care services.
Right to Seek Redressal: When an unfair trade occurs, the customer is entitled to exchange, reimbursement, or compensation against this right.
Right to Consumer Education: The customer is entitled to gain information about his or her rights, especially to make people if they encounter unfair trading.
Consumer organizations are groups that work for the protection of consumer rights in India. It aids customers against deceptive advertising, unsafe products, pollution, and other issues while also assisting them in getting justice in cases of deception. These are a few global and Indian consumer organizations:
International Organizations
Consumer Rights Organizations in India
When you opt to shop for products online, be aware of the potential fraudsters and fake offers. Additionally, Indian consumer rights protect you, but it is your responsibility to use them effectively. So, be aware of your consumer rights.
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