Consumer Court Complaint
The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 lets any consumer file a case directly at the District, State, or National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission for deficiency in goods or services, without necessarily needing a lawyer.
What Is It
A legal case filed by a consumer against a trader, manufacturer, or service provider seeking compensation, refund, or replacement for a defective product or deficient service.
When To Use It
File a Consumer Court case after the company's internal grievance process and the National Consumer Helpline attempt have failed to resolve your issue.
Step-by-Step Process
- 1First register your complaint with the National Consumer Helpline (1915) or consumerhelpline.gov.in for mediation.
- 2If unresolved, prepare a written complaint stating facts, relief sought, and attach all evidence.
- 3File the case on the e-Daakhil portal (edaakhil.nic.in) or at the appropriate District Commission based on claim value.
- 4Pay the nominal court fee (varies by claim amount, often waived for small claims).
- 5Attend hearings (in person or online) as scheduled; many disputes are resolved through mediation.
Documents Required
- Invoice/purchase proof
- All correspondence with the company
- Photos/evidence of the defect or deficiency
- ID proof and address proof
Fees
Nominal court fees ranging from ₹100–₹5,000 depending on claim value; often free for claims under ₹5 lakh.
Processing Time
Consumer Commission cases are meant to be decided within 3–5 months, though in practice they can take longer.
Important Tips
- You do not need a lawyer — cases can be filed and argued by the consumer directly.
- The e-Daakhil portal lets you file and track your case entirely online.
- Keep a strong paper trail of every communication, as documentary evidence carries the most weight.