Three-Tier Pecuniary Jurisdiction Under 2019 Act
Following recent central government notifications, pecuniary jurisdiction is determined by the value of goods or services paid as consideration:
1. District Consumer Commission: Up to ₹50 Lakhs. 2. State Consumer Commission: Exceeding ₹50 Lakhs up to ₹2 Crores. 3. National Consumer Commission (NCDRC): Exceeding ₹2 Crores. Crucially, jurisdiction can now be exercised where the complainant resides or works, eliminating the burden of traveling to the seller's head office.
Product Liability and E-Commerce Accountability
A transformative feature of the 2019 Act is Chapter VI on Product Liability. Manufacturers, service providers, and product sellers (including online marketplaces) are liable to compensate consumers for harm caused by defective products or deficient services.
E-commerce platforms can no longer evade liability by claiming to be mere technology intermediaries when they actively promote, warehouse, or handle payments for defective items.
Step-by-Step Filing via e-Daakhil
1. Dispatch a formal pre-litigation legal notice detailing the grievance and giving 15 days for redressal. 2. Create an account on the national e-Daakhil portal and upload the complaint petition with indexed supporting exhibits. 3. Pay nominal court fees online through integrated payment gateways. 4. Participate in initial admissibility hearings physically or via video conference.
Practical Guidance & Conclusion
The Consumer Protection Act 2019 empowers ordinary citizens against corporate negligence. Leveraging the e-Daakhil framework ensures swift, cost-effective justice for deficient goods and services.