Question

Explain ways and means of consumer protection.

Answer 1

Main means of consumer protection are as under

1. Self Regulation by Business: Every firm insists to have a strong consumer base which means that more and still more people should buy their products. This is possible only when the consumers are fully satisfied with the products of the firm. Many firms have set up their customer service and grievance cells to redress the problems and grievances of their consumers.

2 Business Associations: Business associations prepare a code of conduct for businessmen It is laid down in the code of conduct as to how businessmen are expected to behave with the consumers. For example, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FICCI) and the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) have proposed their code of conduct which governs the attitude of their members towards consumers.

3. Consumer Awareness: As an important means of consumer protection, consumer should protect himself. He should be alert in the matter of his rights. Alert consumer alone can demand his rights from the sellers. Thus, the consumer himself must know his rights and raise voice against unfair practices of the sellers.

4 Consumer Organisations: Consumer organizations play an important role in educating consumers about their rights and providing protection to them. These organizations can force business firms to avoid malpractices and exploitation of consumers.

5. Government: Interests of the consumers are protected by the government by enacting various legislations. Consumer Protection Act 1986 is an important legislation by the government to provide protection to the affected consumer. This Act provides for a three tier machinery.