The Consumer Protection Act (CPA) was enacted in India in 1986 to provide protection to consumers and to promote and safeguard their rights. The purpose of the act is to protect the interests of consumers by regulating unfair trade practices and providing a mechanism for the redressal of consumer complaints and grievances.
The CPA aims to provide consumers with various rights, including the right to safety, the right to be informed, the right to choose, the right to be heard, and the right to seek redressal. The act seeks to ensure that consumers are protected against unfair trade practices, such as false or misleading advertisements, selling of adulterated or defective products, and charging excessive prices.
The CPA also established consumer courts at the district, state, and national levels, to provide a quick and efficient mechanism for the redressal of consumer grievances. Consumers can file complaints with these courts if they have been harmed or suffered losses due to unfair trade practices or defective products.
In addition to the above, the act also provides for the establishment of consumer protection councils, which are responsible for promoting consumer awareness and education about their rights.
Overall, the Consumer Protection Act is an important piece of legislation that helps to protect the interests of consumers in India and provides a mechanism for the redressal of their grievances