Consumer Responsibilities

The Consumer Protection Act gives you, as a consumer, the legal power to fight unfair trade practices. But rights alone are not enough. The law works fully only when you also understand and act on your responsibilities. Here is what every consumer must keep in mind while buying, using, or consuming any good or service.

1. Be aware of the market. Before you buy, know what goods and services are available. Compare options so you can make an intelligent and wise choice. Blind buying leads to exploitation.
2. Buy only standardised goods. Standardisation marks are a promise of quality. Look for:

• ISI mark on electrical goods
• FPO mark on food products
• Hallmark on jewellery

These marks mean the product has passed quality checks. Never skip checking them.

(iii) Use products safely. Learn about the risks associated with any product or service. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Safe use prevents accidents and protects your health.

(iv) Read labels carefully. Labels carry vital information: price, net weight, manufacturing date, expiry date, and more. Do not ignore them. A quick glance can save you from buying expired or overpriced goods.

(v) Assert yourself. Do not accept a bad deal silently. Speak up. Demand fair treatment. If a seller tries to cheat you, refuse to be a passive victim.

(vi) Be honest in your dealings. Only buy legal goods and services. Stay away from black-marketing, hoarding, and other unscrupulous practices. Your honesty discourages dishonest sellers.

(vii) Ask for a cash memo. Every purchase — no matter how small — should come with a proof of purchase. The cash memo is your evidence if you need to file a complaint later.

(viii) File a complaint when needed. If the quality of goods or services falls short, go to the appropriate consumer forum. Do not stay silent just because the amount involved is small. Small injustices, left unchallenged, encourage bigger frauds. …