Question 14 of 29intermediate💡 UnderstandShort Answer3 marks

What is the difference between consumer protection council and Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission?

Correct Answer

Consumer Protection Councils are voluntary organisations formed under the consumer movement in India. They guide consumers on how to file cases in the Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions and represent individual consumers in these commissions. They also receive financial support from the government for creating awareness among people.

On the other hand, Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission is a three-tier quasi-judicial machinery set up under COPRA at the district, state and national levels for redressal of consumer disputes. The District Commission deals with claims up to Rs 1 crore, State Commission deals with claims between Rs 1 crore and Rs 10 crore, and National Commission deals with claims exceeding Rs 10 crore.

Thus, while consumer protection councils guide and assist consumers, the Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions are the actual bodies that adjudicate and resolve consumer disputes.

Exercise: LET'S WORK THESE OUT | Q: 3 | (Page 13)
For More Understanding

Explanation

The textbook clearly distinguishes between the two: Consumer Protection Councils are voluntary organisations that guide consumers and create awareness, whereas Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions are quasi-judicial bodies that actually resolve disputes. The answer covers the nature, function, and structure of both as mentioned in the context.

Solution Steps

  1. Step 1: Identify the nature of Consumer Protection Councils from the context - voluntary organisations that guide and assist consumers.

  2. Step 2: Identify the nature of Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions - quasi-judicial machinery for dispute redressal.

  3. Step 3: Compare their functions and roles to highlight the key differences.

PreviousNext