Every year on December 24th, India observes National Consumer Rights Day to highlight the importance of consumer rights and ensure citizens are informed about their entitlements. This day commemorates the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act of 1986, a landmark legislation that has empowered consumers to stand up against unfair trade practices and seek justice for grievances. For the Child Help Foundation (CHF), National Consumer Rights Day is an opportunity to reflect on our commitment to building an equitable society where every individual, especially vulnerable communities, can exercise their rights.
Consumer rights are an integral aspect of a thriving democracy. They ensure that individuals can access goods and services without fear of exploitation, fraud, or negligence. These rights include the right to safety, information, choice, redressal, and consumer education. Despite their importance, many people remain unaware of these rights, particularly in marginalized communities where education and resources are limited.
The Consumer Protection Act, 2019, further strengthened these rights by introducing provisions like e-commerce regulations, penalties for misleading advertisements, and simplified dispute resolution mechanisms. These advancements underscore the importance of continuous efforts to adapt consumer laws to changing market dynamics.
At Child Help Foundation, we believe that empowering individuals with knowledge is the first step toward societal change. While our primary focus lies in child welfare, health, and education, we recognize that consumer awareness plays a crucial role in the overall well-being of the communities we serve.
Despite the progress made, significant challenges remain. Many consumers are unaware of grievance redressal mechanisms such as consumer forums or helplines. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce has introduced complexities like data privacy concerns and cross-border disputes, which require updated laws and informed consumers.
CHF’s efforts aim to bridge these gaps by ensuring that every individual, regardless of socio-economic status, has access to the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions.
On this National Consumer Rights Day, CHF urges all citizens to actively seek knowledge about their rights and responsibilities as consumers. By doing so, we can collectively contribute to a fairer and more transparent marketplace. Let us remember that an empowered consumer is not only a vigilant buyer but also a catalyst for ethical business practices.