question_answer

Analyse the importance of the tree-tier judicial machinery under Consumer Protection Act (COPRA), 1986 for redressal of consumer disputes.

Answer:

The Indian government formed a law for the protection of consumers named as The Consumer Protection Act (COPRA) in 1986. It was formed for the protection of consumers from the malpractices performed by shopkeepers and factory owners in the market.

The major steps taken by the government through this lane were as follows:

(i) COPRA set up a three tier system at district level which is the most important consumer court called as ?Consumer Forum?. The consumer has to submit an application in District Consumer Forum with authentic proofs through a printed form which is given by the court free of charge against the shopkeeper or producer. This court deals with the cases involving claims upto Rs. 20 Lakhs.

(ii) The second consumer court is called as the ?State Consumer Commission?. It deals with state level cases. The consumer can claim against the shopkeeper or producer between Rs. 20 Lakhs and Rs. 1 Crore.

(iii) The third highest consumer court is called as the ?National Consumer Commission? where more than Rs. 1 crore litigations are dealt. It is situated in Delhi.

All these courts are legal and formed by the Government of India. Both the involved parties have to obey their orders.