Q.Explain the right to be heard and the right to seek redressal with suitable examples.

Two consumer rights come into play specifically after something has gone wrong with a purchase — one about getting a fair hearing, the other about obtaining an actual remedy. …

The right to be heard and the right to seek redressal are the two consumer rights that come into play after a purchase, when something has gone wrong.

Right to be Heard: This right assures a consumer that any genuine complaint or concern will receive due consideration at the appropriate forum — for example, a company's own customer-service department, a consumer welfare organisation, or a government body responsible for consumer affairs. It means a seller or manufacturer cannot simply ignore a legitimate complaint. For instance, if a consumer complains to an appliance company about a manufacturing defect, the company is expected to genuinely consider the complaint rather than dismiss it without a hearing.

Right to Seek Redressal: This right goes further, giving the consumer legal recourse against unfair trade practices, defective goods, or deficient services, including the right to claim compensation or an appropriate remedy such as replacement, repair, or refund. For example, if a company refuses to resolve a complaint about a defective mobile phone directly, the buyer can approach a consumer forum, which has the legal authority to order a replacement, refund, or compensation. …

A common mistake is treating these as the same right; being heard is about a fair hearing, while redressal is about an actual enforceable remedy. Another mistake is giv …