Demystifying Consumer Authorities and Consumer Commissions: Understanding the Difference

Consumer Authorities:

Consumer authorities are bodies established at the district level under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. These authorities handle consumer complaints and play a vital role in the resolution of consumer disputes. Key features of consumer authorities include:

1. Jurisdiction: Consumer authorities have jurisdiction limited to a specific district. They handle consumer complaints when the total value of goods or services, along with the compensation claimed, does not exceed ₹1 crore (as per the current threshold).
2. Composition: Each consumer authority typically consists of a District Judge (or an individual qualified to be a District Judge) and at least two members with expertise in consumer affairs.
3. Powers and Functions: Consumer authorities have the power to hear and dispose of consumer complaints, conduct inquiries, summon parties, and award compensation or relief to consumers.

Consumer Commissions:

Consumer commissions, on the other hand, are higher-level bodies established at the state and national levels. These commissions have broader jurisdictions and handle more significant consumer disputes. Here are some essential aspects of consumer commissions:

1. Jurisdiction: Consumer commissions have jurisdiction over multiple districts within a state or across the country. They handle consumer complaints exceeding the monetary limit of ₹1 crore.
2. Composition: Consumer commissions consist of a President and members appointed by the respective governments. The qualifications and expertise of the members vary based on their appointments.
3. Powers and Functions: Consumer commissions possess wider powers compared to consumer authorities. They can hear and adjudicate complex consumer disputes, issue orders, grant compensation or relief, and handle appeals arising from decisions of consumer authorities.

Differentiating Consumer Authorities and Consumer Commissions:

The primary differences between consumer authorities and consumer commissions can be summarized as follows:

1. Jurisdiction: Consumer authorities operate at the district level and handle complaints within their specific districts, while consumer commissions have jurisdiction over multiple districts within a state or at the national level.
2. Monetary Limit: Consumer authorities deal with complaints where the value of goods or services, along with the compensation claimed, does not exceed ₹1 crore. Consumer commissions handle disputes exceeding this monetary limit.
3. Appellate Authority: Consumer commissions act as appellate authorities for decisions made by consumer authorities. Consumers dissatisfied with the verdict of a consumer authority can appeal to the respective consumer commission.

Conclusion:

Understanding the difference between consumer authorities and consumer commissions is vital for effectively pursuing consumer grievances. While consumer authorities cater to district-level disputes within a specific monetary limit, consumer commissions handle more significant cases and serve as appellate authorities. At the Law Offices of Kr. Vivek Tanwar Advocate and Associates, we offer litigation support services for matters related to consumer services. We are committed to guiding you through the complex landscape of consumer protection laws and providing effective legal representation. If you require assistance or have any consumer-related concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to us. Your consumer rights matter, and we are here to ensure they are protected.

Author : Advocate Anjali Bablani (D/3376/2016)