Define Consumer Protection Act, 1986.

The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 is a landmark legislation enacted by the Government of India to safeguard the interests of consumers and ensure fair and transparent transactions in the marketplace. The Act aims to provide consumers with effective mechanisms for redressal of grievances, compensation for unfair trade practices, and protection against the sale of defective goods and deficient services. Key provisions of the Consumer Protection Act include:

1. Establishment of Consumer Forums: The Act establishes three-tier consumer dispute redressal mechanisms at the district, state, and national levels, known as Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions, to adjudicate consumer complaints and disputes.

2. Definition of Consumer Rights: The Act defines various consumer rights, including the right to safety, right to information, right to choose, right to be heard, and right to seek redressal, empowering consumers to assert their entitlements and hold businesses accountable for violations.

3. Prohibition of Unfair Trade Practices: The Act prohibits unfair trade practices such as false advertising, misleading representations, deceptive packaging, and charging excessive prices, providing legal recourse for consumers harmed by such practices.

4. Product Liability: The Act introduces the concept of product liability, holding manufacturers, sellers, and service providers liable for selling defective goods or providing deficient services that cause harm or injury to consumers.

Overall, the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 plays a pivotal role in promoting consumer welfare, enhancing market transparency, and fostering a culture of accountability and responsibility among businesses operating in India.