Other Significant Milestones In The Context Of Consumer Rights In India

In India, the evolution of consumer rights has been marked by several significant legal and regulatory milestones that have shaped the landscape of consumer protection and ensured that consumer interests are safeguarded. Below are some of the most crucial developments in this area:

1. The Introduction of E-commerce Regulations

• With the rise of online shopping, India introduced specific rules under the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020 to prevent unfair trade practices in digital transactions and enhance consumer confidence when shopping online.
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2. Hallmarking of Precious Metals

• The government’s decision to make hallmarking mandatory for gold jewellery and artefacts sold in India is another significant consumer right milestone. This measure ensures purity and prevents fraud in the buying and selling of precious metals.
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3. Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA), 2016

• Aimed at protecting home buyers and boosting investments in the real estate industry, RERA ensures transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the construction and sale of properties. The Act also provides mechanisms for quick dispute resolution.

4. Banning of Unfair Trade Practices in Consumer Agreements

• Over the years, through various judicial decisions and regulations, there has been a significant clampdown on unfair contract terms and conditions imposed by sellers and service providers on consumers. These measures prevent businesses from exploiting consumer vulnerabilities.
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5. Direct Selling Guidelines, 2021

• To protect consumers from pyramid schemes and ensure the legitimacy of direct selling, the Government of India notified the Consumer Protection (Direct Selling) Rules, 2021. These guidelines mandate direct selling companies to comply with specific requirements, enhancing consumer safety in the direct selling industry.
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6. Telecom Consumers Protection Regulations by TRAI

• The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has also established several regulations to protect consumer rights in the telecom sector, including transparency in tariff offers, addressing unsolicited commercial communications, and ensuring quality of service.

Conclusion

These milestones reflect India’s evolving legal framework aimed at bolstering consumer rights and adapting to the changes brought about by technological advancements and new business practices. Each of these steps has contributed significantly towards building a robust consumer protection environment in India, ensuring that consumer interests are safeguarded in a variety of sectors.