What do you mean by consumer? Explain various rights of consumer.
ANSWER:
A consumer is the final user of goods or services produced in an economy. He may be an individual, a household or even a group within an economy. In other words, consumers are all individuals who use goods with the approval of the seller.
i. Right to Safety - Every consumer has the right to be safeguarded against goods and services that are hazardous to his/her life, health and property. For example, manufacturing defects in electrical appliances and cooking gas cylinders can be injurious. Thus, consumers have the right to be protected against such products.
ii. Right to be Informed - A consumer has the right to be informed about the quality, quantity, price, ingredients, weight, etc., of goods and services. In India, it is legally mandatory for manufacturers to provide all such information on the package and label of goods. This also helps the consumer to make a wise choice.
iii. Right to Choose - A consumer has the right to choose from a variety of goods and services at competitive prices. In other words, a consumer has the right to have access to a variety of products at fair and competitive prices. Thus, retailers or suppliers should offer a variety of products to their customers. They should not induce their customers to purchase a particular product or service.
iv. Right to be Heard - In case of any grievance or dissatisfaction, a consumer has the right to file a complaint. A consumer can file a legal complaint and seek redressal against any form of exploitation in appropriate forums established by the government. Nowadays, many consumer organisations and associations also work in this direction.
v. Right to Seek Redressal - A consumer has the right to seek redressal and compensation in case of any exploitation. The Consumer Protection Act provides for compensation in the form of replacement of product, cash back, repair/removal of defects, etc.
vi. Right to Consumer Education - A consumer has the right to be educated and aware of his rights and available remedies in case of exploitation. Many government and non-governmental organisations work actively in this regard.
