The Consumer Protection Bill 2018, passed in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, is a much-needed step towards securing the rights of buyers. Even when they wanted to fight for their rights, the rusty Consumer Protection Act 1986 could do little to make manufacturers or retailers accountable for the actions. The irony is while consumerism was on the rise in India, the rights of consumers were relegated to the background. But the tables have turned as the new bill brings consumer rights in the country on a par with developed nations. The proposed setting up of Central Consumer Protection Authority, on the lines of highly effective US Federal Trade Commission, is aimed at protecting consumers from unfair trade practices.

Source: dna December 22, 2018 01:30 UTC