Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Question
Who can file a complaint in the Consumer Commission?
Any consumer who has purchased goods or availed services for personal use (not for commercial purposes) and has faced deficiency in service, unfair trade practice, or defective goods can file a complaint. Legal heirs, consumer associations, or group of consumers can also file complaints.
What is the time limit to file a consumer complaint?
A complaint must be filed within 2 years from the date on which the cause of action arises. However, the Commission may allow filing beyond limitation if sufficient cause is shown.
Is it mandatory to hire an advocate to file a consumer complaint?
No. The Consumer Protection Act allows consumers to represent themselves. However, you may choose to appoint a legal representative if needed.
Where should I file my consumer complaint?
A complaint should be filed in the District Commission where:
the Opposite Party resides or carries on business; or
the Complainant resides; or
the cause of action arose.
Jurisdiction is also based on the value of goods/services and compensation claimed.
What is the monetary jurisdiction of the District Consumer Commission?
District Commission has jurisdiction to entertain complaints where the value of goods/services paid does not exceed ₹50 lakhs.
What are the types of cases that can be filed in a Consumer Commission?
Defective products (electronics, appliances, vehicles, etc.)
Deficiency in service (insurance, banking, telecom, healthcare, etc.)
Unfair trade practices (false advertisements, misleading claims)
Overcharging, delay in delivery, or non-delivery of services/goods
E-commerce disputes
What documents are required to file a consumer complaint?
Invoice/Bill/Receipt
Warranty/Guarantee Card
Copy of Written Complaints (email or letters)
Service reports or product photos
Legal notice (if any)
Any communication with the Opposite Party
What kind of relief can I get from the Consumer Commission?
Refund of amount paid
Replacement of product or completion of service
Compensation for mental agony and harassment
Litigation costs
Cease and desist orders (for unfair practices)
What happens after a complaint is filed?
Notice is sent to the Opposite Party
Written version is filed
Evidence is recorded (documents, affidavits)
Arguments are heard
Final order is passed (can include directions for refund, compensation, etc.)
Can I withdraw my consumer complaint after filing it?
Yes, the complainant can withdraw the complaint at any stage before final judgment, subject to approval by the Commission.
What if the Opposite Party does not comply with the order?
You can file an Execution Petition to enforce the order. Non-compliance may attract penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Sample Legal Draft
IN THE DISTRICT CONSUMER DISPUTES REDRESSAL COMMISSION
[Insert Name of District & State]
Consumer Complaint No. _______ of 2025
IN THE MATTER OF:
ABC,
S/o Shri XYZ,
R/o 123, Green Avenue, Sector 9,
New Delhi – 110001
Contact No: 987654321
Email: abc@email.com
…Complainant
VERSUS
DEF Pvt. Ltd.,
Through its Managing Director,
Regd. Office at: 456, Blue Towers,
Andheri East, Mumbai – 400069
Maharashtra
Email: support@defpvt.com
…Opposite Party No. 1
GHI Electronics,
Authorized Dealer of DEF Pvt. Ltd.,
Shop No. 12, Sunrise Mall,
Dwarka, New Delhi – 110075
Email: ghielectronics@email.com
…Opposite Party No. 2
CONSUMER COMPLAINT UNDER SECTION 35 OF THE CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT, 2019
MOST RESPECTFULLY SHOWETH:
That the present complaint is being filed by the Complainant under Section 35 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, seeking redressal against unfair trade practices, deficiency in service, and mental agony caused by the Opposite Parties in connection with the purchase of a defective electronic item.
That the Complainant purchased a Smart LED TV (Model No. X1234, Invoice No. GHI/1234/2025 dated 15.04.2025) from Opposite Party No. 2, being an authorized dealer of Opposite Party No. 1, for a total consideration of ₹55,000/-. A copy of the invoice is annexed as Annexure A.
That within 10 days of purchase, the Complainant noticed persistent screen flickering and sound distortion, indicating a manufacturing defect. The Complainant immediately lodged a complaint with Opposite Party No. 2, who redirected the issue to Opposite Party No. 1 for technical inspection.
That despite repeated complaints (on 25.04.2025, 29.04.2025, and 03.05.2025) and multiple assurances, no proper repair or replacement has been done. A technician visited on 05.05.2025 and confirmed the defect but no further action was taken. Copies of complaint emails and service visit acknowledgment are annexed as Annexures B and C.
That the Complainant also sent a legal notice dated 18.05.2025 demanding immediate replacement or refund, but the Opposite Parties failed to comply. A copy of the legal notice and postal receipt is annexed as Annexure D.
That the Opposite Parties have acted in a negligent and unfair manner, amounting to deficiency in service, and have caused the Complainant immense mental agony, harassment, and financial loss.
That the Complainant is a “Consumer” as defined under Section 2(7) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, having purchased the product for personal/domestic use and not for any commercial purpose.
PRAYER
In view of the facts and circumstances stated above, the Complainant most respectfully prays that this Hon’ble Commission may be pleased to:
Direct the Opposite Parties to refund the amount of ₹55,000/- along with interest @12% per annum from the date of purchase till realization;
Direct the Opposite Parties to pay ₹50,000/- as compensation for mental agony, harassment, and inconvenience caused to the Complainant;
Direct the Opposite Parties to pay ₹10,000/- towards litigation costs;
Any other relief or order that this Hon’ble Commission may deem just and proper in the interest of justice.
VERIFICATION
I, ABC, the Complainant above-named, do hereby verify that the contents of the above complaint are true and correct to my knowledge and belief. No part of it is false and nothing material has been concealed.
Verified at New Delhi
On this 9th day of July, 2025
Sd/-
(ABC)
Complainant