Defective Product or Poor Service: Your Rights as a Consumer

Consumer Litigation · For consumers

What the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 offers and how to start. General legal information only.

Your rights

  • Protection against hazardous goods and services
  • Information on quality, quantity, price and standards
  • Choice of goods and services at fair prices
  • To be heard, and to seek redress for unfair trade practices

First, complain to the seller

  1. Write to the seller or service provider, describing the problem and what you want: repair, replacement, refund or compensation.
  2. Use their grievance channel and keep the complaint number and replies.
  3. Send a legal notice if the matter is serious or unresolved.

Online purchases

E-commerce entities have obligations on grievance officers and on displaying seller details under the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020. Use the platform’s complaint process and the National Consumer Helpline in addition.

Then, a consumer complaint

If it is unresolved, you can file a complaint before the District, State or National Commission depending on the value. See which commission and what time limit.

Keep your papers

Bill, warranty card, advertisement, photographs and all communications.

Related: Consumer litigation · All consumer guides · Send an enquiry

Important disclaimer: This article is general legal information, not legal advice. It does not create a lawyer-client relationship and is not an advertisement or solicitation under Bar Council of India rules. Verify current statutes, rules and judgments before relying on it.