The Supreme Court has ruled that consumer forums can enforce all their orders like civil court decrees, ending an 18-year gap caused by a 2002 amendment. The judgment ensures consumers get real justice and not just “paper victories.”
The Supreme Court has clearly told the Centre that no written exam or viva voce will be needed to appoint or reappoint presidents and judicial members of consumer commissions. It also directed ensuring a fixed five-year tenure.
The Calcutta High Court clarified that consumer forums cannot issue arrest warrants. They can only order civil detention under CPC rules.
Former Solicitor General Ranjit Kumar recommends that the Modi government prioritize appointing new judges to address vacancies in the judiciary, rather than assigning retired judges to tribunals. He highlights the criticism faced by tribunals for backlogs and delays, emphasizing the need to expand the judiciary. Kumar also discusses potential delays in implementing criminal laws and reforms due to the structure of the coalition government.
The Consumer Protection Act of 2019, replacing the 1986 law, focuses on contemporary consumer issues in India. It defines consumers and outlines the role of consumer forums, emphasizes the avenues for filing complaints, the process, and the timeline for resolution.
