CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT, 1986 TO 2019: MILESTONES AND MECHANISMS    

Authors : Dr. Anjali Juyal

Publishing Date : 2025

DOI : https://doi.org/10.52458/9789349381636.nsp.2025.eb.ch-03

ISBN : 978-93-49381-23-0

Pages : 37-50

Chapter id : NSP/EB/CRRISE/2025/Ch-03

Abstract : The protection of consumer rights has become an essential aspect of modern governance, particularly in the context of the rapid economic development, market expansion, and technological advancements that characterize today's globalized economies. In India, the legal framework for consumer protection has evolved significantly, with the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, followed by the comprehensive overhaul introduced by the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. This evolution reflects a growing recognition of the need to address emerging challenges such as the rise of e-commerce, the increasing complexity of product markets, and the need for stronger mechanisms to curb unfair trade practices and safeguard consumer interests. The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 was the first significant step in establishing a legal framework to protect the interests of consumers, providing a broad-based approach to consumer rights, remedies, and dispute resolution. However, with changing economic landscapes and the increasing complexity of consumer interactions, the Act was amended and further strengthened in 2019 (Rao, 2023). The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 seeks to address emerging concerns, including consumer grievances arising from online transactions, product liability, and misleading advertisements, while expanding the scope of consumer rights and remedies (Sharma and Verma, 2024.). This chapter aims to critically examine the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, and the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, highlighting their key features, amendments, and the evolution of consumer rights and legal remedies in response to societal needs. It will provide a detailed analysis of the definitions, provisions, and dispute resolution mechanisms that form the backbone of consumer protection laws in India. Through this exploration, the chapter seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of how legal structures can evolve to protect consumers while maintaining a balanced and fair marketplace.

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Cite : Juyal, A. (2025). CONsumer Protection Act, 1986 To 2019: Milestones And Mechanisms (1st ed., pp. 37-50). Noble Science Press. https://doi.org/10.52458/9789349381636.nsp.2025.eb.ch-03

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