How to File a Consumer Complaint in 2025: A Definitive Guide

Are you tired of delayed refunds, fake promises, or bad service? 😡
You’re not alone. Every day, thousands of Indians face these issues but never complain. Why? Because filing a consumer complaint feels confusing and scary.

Good news 👉 It doesn’t have to be.

In this guide, I’ll walk you step step on how to file a consumer complaint in India in 2025—online and offline.

This definitive guide covers everything you need:
✔ Latest complaint formats (with free downloads)
✔ Updated fee structure & legal costs
✔ Pro tips to strengthen your case
✔ Online & offline filing procedures

No more confusion—just a clear, actionable roadmap to resolve your consumer issues quickly. 

Let’s dive in.

5 Must-Knows Before Filing Consumer Complaint

Filing a consumer complaint can feel confusing 😕. However, if you know the rules, the process becomes simple. Let’s look at the five most important things before you start.

1. Are you really a consumer?

First, ask yourself this: Am I a consumer?

Section 2 (7) of the CP Act 2019, defines “consumer” as –

"Any person who buys goods or hires service for consideration." A person who resales or uses goods for commercial purposes is not a Consumer.

For example, Bought a washing machine for your home? ✅ You’re a consumer.
Bought it to rent out to customers? ❌ Not covered.

2. What are Consumer Rights?

Next, let’s talk about your rights.

In fact, most complaints fail because people do not know them. Under the Section 2 (9) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, you enjoy these consumer rights–

Therefore, always keep receipts, warranties, and written proof safe. They strengthen your case later.

3. What Compensation you may seek from Consumer Court?

Here comes the big question: What can you claim? 💰

According to Section 39 of the CP Act, 2019, the court may order:

1. To remove the defects.
2. To replace the goods.
3. To refund the price.
4. To pay compensation for loss suffered consumer.
5. To stop the unfair trade practice.
6. To withdraw the hazardous goods from selling.
7. To stop manufacture of hazardous goods.
8. To neutralize the effect of misleading advertisement.
9. To provide for adequate costs to parties.
10. To desist from issuing any misleading advertisement.

Example:
• Paid ₹50,000 for defective AC? You may Claim:
✓ ₹50,000 refund + ₹5,000 (harassment) + ₹2,000 (filing fees)

As a result, you get both money back and peace of mind.

4. What is the Punishments for various offences?

Next, Chapter 7 of the CP Act, 2019 talks about penalties.

Therefore, companies think twice before cheating consumers. And you, as a consumer, have stronger protection under the law.

5. Why NCH is faster than Consumer Court?

Now, let’s talk about the National Consumer Helpline (NCH). NCH is a consumer grievance redress mechanism. It is managed the Dept. of Consumer Affairs.

Interestingly, As per 2020-21 annual reports – “86% of the valid responses were marked ‘resolved‘ the Consumers.”

So, before rushing to court, always try NCH first. It saves you both time and stress.

How to approach NCH?

Reaching NCH is super easy. In fact, you have multiple options:

1. Click here to Whatsapp
2. Call the TollFree Number 1800 11 4000 (or) simply dial 1915.
   (All Days except National holidays from 8AM to 8PM)
3. SMS 81300 09809 (or)
4. Register your complaint on NCH Portal or NCH App.

(1) How to complain against E-Commerce Companies like flipkart, Amazon, etc.,?

E-commerce rules are strict now. Every platform must show the Grievance Officer’s details. That includes name, contact number, and designation.

👉 The officer must acknowledge your complaint within 48 hours.
👉 The issue must be resolved within 30 days.

So, first complain on the company portal.

➡️ Want details? Check our full guide on filing a Flipkart complaint.

(2) How to complain against Loan Companies (NBFCs) like Paysense, Dhani etc.,?

Next, Loan apps and NBFCs must also follow strict consumer laws.

At Tier 2, you can:

• Approach RBI’s grievance redressal system 🏦 (Click here for details).
• Or, approach SEBI if the issue relates to investments 📈 (Click here for details).

Therefore, never stop at company support. Always escalate if your rights are ignored.

(3) How to complain against Telecom Companies like Airtel, Jio, VI, BSNL and DTH services like Tata Sky, Dish TV etc.,?

Dropped calls or Bad DTH service? You have options.

👉 Each telecom or DTH company has an Appellate Authority.
👉 Their contact details are usually available on official websites.

If not, simply Google “Appellate Authority” + company name.

At the same time, lodge your complaint on NCH. That way, you cover both fronts.

(4) How to complain against Service Sector Companies?

Service providers also come under consumer law. This includes movie theatres and matrimonial platforms like Shaadi.com and Bharat Matrimony.

Step 1️⃣ File your complaint directly with the company.
Step 2️⃣ At Tier 2, always escalate to NCH.

(5) How to complain about Consumer Durables and Electronics like TV, Refrigerator, Washing machine etc.,?

Bought a defective TV, fridge, or washing machine? Don’t worry.

At Tier 2, move your grievance to NCH. If needed, escalate further to the Consumer Commission. So, whether it’s a small defect or major fraud, you’re never powerless.

(6) How to complain against Automobile companies like HYUNDAI, MARUTI SUZUKI,HERO, HONDA etc.,?

First things first—always complain directly to the dealership or company. Then, escalate the issue through the company’s official complaint portal.

However, if ignored, immediately register on NCH for Tier 2 support.

(7) How to complain against Insurance Companies like Tata AIG, Max Life etc.,?

Start with Tier 1: Use the official IRDAI Grievance Cell. Also, always submit complaint with policy number and proof documents.

Because insurers must acknowledge within 3 days. If unresolved in 30 days, move to IRDA Ombudsman.
So, Tier 2 escalation ensures stronger legal backing for your claim.

(8) How to complain against Banks like HDFC, ICICI, SBI etc., and Digital Payment Apps like Gpay, Phonepe etc.,?

First, escalate internally through the bank’s grievance redressal system.

Then, check the bank’s official website for hierarchy. For instance, Google -> “Grievance Redressal [Your Bank Name]”

Meanwhile, keep your complaint reference number safe for tracking. Because banks resolve 80%+ complaints in 30 days (RBI 2023).
Still unresolved? Then escalate to the RBI Banking Ombudsman.

(9) How to complain about various issues like.-

1. Overcharging on MRP
2. Underweight
3. Absence of Manufacturing month and year
4. Smudging of MRP
5. Absence of Customer care details on packet

So, first file a complaint directly with the company helpline. For instance, Google search “Contact Us [Company Name]” for official details.
Pro Tip: Always get a reference number for proof.

If ignored, escalate to the Controller of Legal Metrology. This covers MRP violations, fake weights, and packaging frauds. For example, search “Legal Metrology [Your District]” to find contacts. Finally, escalate further to NCH if issue stays unresolved.

(10) How to complain about Food Safety Issues?

Various issues like –

1. Bad in quality/ taste
2. Sale after expiry date
3. Foreign matter, dust, insect, fungus etc.,
4. Health problems – vomiting, headache
5. Adulteration

Tier 1: Locate Your Food Inspector

• So, Google search: “Food Inspector [Your District]”
  (For Example, “Food Inspector Bangalore Urban”)
• Also, Check official contact on [fssai.gov.in]
• Then, file complaint with photos, receipts, or product samples.

Tier 2: Escalation Options

➡️ Not resolved? Click to see full grievance procedure

• Timeline: Inspectors must act within 14 days (FSSAI rules)
• Then escalate to State Food Commissioner.
  Finally, move to Consumer Court if justice is still denied.

Pro Tip: Always keep complaint copies for future follow-up.

How to file a Consumer Complaint Online?

First things first—Sec. 35 of CP Act 2019 empowers YOU. So, you can file consumer complaints completely online without hassle. Better still, it’s free up to ₹5 lakh claims.

Meanwhile, the government launched the new e-Jagriti portal for consumers. So, just visit 👉 https://e-jagriti.gov.in/ to file your case instantly.

Also, detailed filing procedure is available under Help Docs on the portal. Finally, download the Consumer Complaint Flow Chart PDF for quick reference.

5 Steps to Win Your Consumer Case

STEP 1 : ISSUE NOTICE

Always Issue a Notice Before Filing a Consumer Complaint. Because notices save time and increase resolution chances. So, draft a clear notice with all details and proof.

Why a Legal Notice Works?

🔹 Saves 2-3 months vs. immediate court filing
🔹 Besides, Creates evidence for future legal use

Is it mandatory to send notice before filing a Consumer Case?

No. Still, it’s a smart move that saves you months.

Do you need an advocate for issuing notice?

No—you can do it yourself.. 👉 Click here to download free notice format. Besides, you can easily edit it as per your case. However, you need not to worry much about the legal aspects.

How to Draft a Winning Legal Notice

1. Attach Documentation

📌 First, Include:
✔️ Order ID/Invoice No. – (Amazon Order #AB123XYZ dated 15/08/2024)
✔️ Product/Service Details – (Defective iPhone 15 (IMEI: 123…), purchased for ₹79,999)
✔️ Timeline – (Issue observed on 20/08/2024 within 5 days of purchase)
✔️ Defect Proof – (Photos of damaged screen, video of malfunction)

📝 Pro Format:
“On [date], I purchased [product] (Order #[X]) from [company]. On [date], [explain issue]. Despite [actions taken], the problem persists.”

2. Attach Communication History

📌 Then, Document All:
✉️ Emails – “Your customer care reply dated 25/08/2024 (attached)”
📞 Call Logs – “3 calls to helpline (123-4567890) on [dates]”
💬 Chats – “Live chat transcript with agent ‘Rahul’ (28/08/2024)”

📝 Pro Tip:
“Attach screenshots as Annexure A, B, C…”

STEP 2 : IDENTIFY THE JURISDICTION AND LIMITATION

Next, find the correct jurisdiction for your complaint. But what exactly is jurisdiction? 🤔 It means court’s deciding power. So, consumer forums work under two types of jurisdiction.

(1) Territorial (Area-Wise) Jurisdiction

(2) Pecuniary (Money-Wise) Jurisdiction.

(1) Territorial (Area-Wise) Jurisdiction:

Territorial Jurisdiction means ‘related to area’. As per Sec.34 of the CP Act 2019, file a complaint where you live. Or, file where the business officially operates.

For example, If a Consumer, who stays in Delhi ordered a TV from www.shopmytv .com. Whose official business address is in Bangalore. So, complaint can be filed either in Delhi or Bangalore.

District Consumer Commission are available in almost each and every district of the country.

Pecuniary (Money-Wise) Jurisdiction:

Pecuniary Jurisdiction means ‘related to money’.

As per recent PIB press release,

1. District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum (up to Rs.50 Lakh) 
2. State Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum (Rs.50 Lakh – Rs.2 Crore) 
3. National Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum (up to Rs.2 Crore) 

So, how to calculate Pecuniary Jurisdiction?

If, the Product/Service Value is less than Rs.50 Lakh you may approach the district consumer forum.

For example, In case of faulty Laptop worth ₹85,000 then👉 File in District Commission 

Pro Tip

Burden of proof lies on YOU, the consumer. Therefore, file only if you have strong documents and evidence.

Limitation Period

While, you get two years from cause of action to file. But, what’s cause of action? It’s the exact date issue began.

For Example, if you bought washing machine on 30 May 2023. And, It failed on 05 July 2023. Then, the Cause of action is 05 July 2023. Therefore, you can file until 04 July 2025.

However, if there’s delay, courts may accept valid reasons. So yes, you can file beyond 2 years with justification.

STEP 3 : DRAFT YOUR CONSUMER COMPLAINT

Did you know? Bengaluru forums dismissed 24% of cases on technical errors. Therefore, drafting your complaint in proper format is extremely crucial.

Nonetheless, don’t worry—you don’t need legal expertise or perfect English. Instead, you can even file in your regional language.

Moreover, just download a format and edit it for your case.

Consumer Complaint Formats

• Download Format 1
• Download Format 2
• Download Format 3
• Download Format 4

Checklists of a Consumer Complaint

Filing a complaint may feel tough 😓. But step step, it’s easy. So, let’s break it down.

✅ Consumer Details

First things first, write your name, address, phone, and email. In addition, double-check them. After all, wrong info delays responses.

✅ Company Details

Next, add the company’s name, address, email, and phone number. Besides, if multiple parties are involved, list them clearly as Respondent 1, 2, 3.

✅ Case Facts

Then, mention the Order ID, price paid, date, and issue timeline. Further, write each point in a separate, numbered paragraph.

✅ Correspondence History

After that, attach your emails, call logs, and chat screenshots. Likewise, show how you already tried solving it directly.

✅ Relief Sought (Prayer) 🙏

Now, under the heading PRAYER, list what you want. For instance, claim refunds, replacements, costs, or compensation.

✅ Signature & Authorization ✍️

Don’t forget to sign your complaint at the end. Alternatively, you can authorize someone else. But, attach an authorization letter. 👉 [Click here to download format]

✅ Supporting Documents 📎

Attach bills, invoices, warranties, receipts, photos, or written complaints. Additionally, arrange them in proper order. Otherwise, officials may get confused.

✅ Affidavit 📜

File an affidavit declaring your facts are true and correct. Meanwhile, get it attested a Notary Public or Oath Commissioner. Nevertheless, notarization can also be done later if required.

✅ Copies to File

Always file minimum five copies of the complaint. Besides, add extra copies for each opposite party.

✅ Final Verification 🔍

Finally, recheck your index, pagination, annexures, and attachments. Because even small errors may cause dismissal. Ultimately, a verified complaint looks polished, professional, and court-ready 🚀.

STEP 4 : PAY REQUISITE COURT FEE

Before filing, double-check the fees applicable to your case. 👉 [Click here] to see fees above ₹2 Crore. Moreover, don’t rely only on online info. Always verify fees at your Consumer Forum office. Additionally, check State Commission websites for the latest updates. For instance, google “[State Name] District Consumer Commission Fees”.

💳 How to Pay the Fees

Payment is simple. Yet, you must choose the correct method. Therefore, you can pay in two ways only:

1️⃣ Crossed Demand Draft (DD) from any nationalized bank.
2️⃣ Crossed Indian Postal Order (IPO).

But wait—who should you address it to?

• For District Forum → In favour of President, District Commission.
• For State Commission → Address it to Registrar, State Commission.
• For National Commission → Address it to Registrar, National Commission.

Thus, the addressee changes with the forum level. Consequently, a wrong addressee can delay your case.

STEP 5 : SUBMIT TO CONSUMER FORUM

Now comes the final move 🚀. After arranging everything, submit all complaint copies with annexures. In addition, include supporting docs, affidavits, and payment proof.

But what if you get stuck? 🤔 No worries! Simply contact the concerned Consumer Forum office. Because, in most cases, officials happily guide first-time filers.

Curious 🤨 to know, what happens next?
.

..

What Happens After Filing a Consumer Complaint

So, you’ve filed your complaint. What happens next? Let’s go step step and make it simple.

1️⃣ Initial Scrutiny (⏳ 7–15 Days)

First, the forum staff carefully reviews your complaint. They check for mistakes or missing details. If issues are found, just fix them and resubmit.

2️⃣ Admission Hearing

Next, comes your very first appearance in front of the forum. You (or your representative) must briefly explain your case in 2–3 minutes. If you’re busy, you can even request another date.

3️⃣ Notice Stage (📬 1–2 Months)

Once admitted, the court asks you to provide postal stamps and envelopes. The number depends on how many opposite parties you are filing against. After that, official notices are sent to the company.

4️⃣ Version Stage

At this point, the company has to reply. They might file objections, which you can counter with a rejoinder. If they ignore the notice, the case proceeds ex-parte without their input.

5️⃣ Evidence Stage

Now comes the evidence stage. You’ll take an oath in the witness box and submit all your supporting proofs. Later, the company also presents their evidence.

6️⃣ Final Arguments

This stage is where both sides put forward their closing arguments. Usually, these are written submissions. Still, oral arguments may be allowed if necessary.

7️⃣ Judgment Day

Finally, the forum delivers its order. The judgment is given in writing. It usually comes within 30–90 days of the last hearing.

💡 Pro Tip: Want to stay updated? 👉 [Click here] to check the status of your consumer case anytime.

📑Procedure for Filing an Appeal

Not satisfied with the lower court’s judgment? Don’t worry—you can always move higher. In fact, the Consumer Protection Act gives you the right to appeal within 30 days.

🔎 What is an Appeal?

An appeal means challenging an unfavorable order in a higher court. Think of it as your second chance to seek justice. But remember—you must act fast within the 30-day deadline.

🏛 Consumer Court Appeal Hierarchy

1️⃣ District Forum → State Commission (within 30 days)
2️⃣ State Commission → National Commission (within 30 days)
3️⃣ National Commission → Supreme Court (within 30 days)

📌 Key Rules to Remember

⏳ You have only 30 days from judgment date (delays need valid reasons).
📝 You must pay fresh fees at the higher court.
📑 Extra evidence is not allowed—stick to documents from your original case.

🧾 Example Scenario

Suppose, if you’re unhappy with the Karnataka State Commission’s order. In that case, you can appeal to the National Commission, Delhi. Just file the certified copy of the judgment, your grounds for appeal, and a fresh ₹5,000 demand draft.

💡 Pro Tips

➡️ Always collect a certified copy of judgment right after the verdict.
➡️ You can argue yourself—hire a lawyer only for drafting if needed.

⏰ What if Appeal is Late?

Missed the 30-day deadline? Don’t panic—the State Commission may still accept it. However, you must submit a written explanation for the delay with your appeal.

💰 Court Fees for Filing an Appeal

✅ No Fee if Order Favored You: If the company appeals, you don’t pay.
❌ 50% or ₹25,000 Fee: If the order was against you, deposit 50% of the award or ₹25,000, whichever is lower.

🏦 Demand Draft Rules

Your demand draft must be in favor of “Registrar, [State] State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission”. For instance, google “Registrar, Karnataka SCDRC.” Importantly, it must be from a nationalized bank like SBI or PNB.

🔄 Refund Policy

Good news—your appeal fee is refunded if you win the appeal. This is clearly provided under Rule 15 of Consumer Protection Rules, 2020.

Appeal Before the National Commission

If you’re unhappy with the State Commission’s order, don’t stop there. You can challenge it before the National Commission within 30 days.

Missed the deadline? No worries—the National Commission may still allow it. But you must file an application for condonation of delay with proper reasons.

And yes, a certified copy of the State Commission’s order is compulsory. Without it, your appeal won’t even be admitted.

Court Fee for National Commission Appeal

Here’s the relief—no court fee is charged for filing. However, you must deposit ₹35,000 or 50% of compensation (whichever is lower).

But, this deposit should be crossed Demand Draft from a nationalized bank. Make it payable to the Registrar, National Commission, New Delhi. Finally, the entire amount is refundable if the order goes in your favor.

🏛 Appeal Before the Supreme Court of India

Still not satisfied with the National Commission’s verdict? Then, your last and strongest option is the Supreme Court of India. The deadline is the same—30 days from the date of order. Yet, the Supreme Court may allow late filing if there’s sufficient cause.

Once again, you’ll need the certified copy of the National Commission’s order. Plus, don’t forget the application for condonation of delay, if applicable.

Court Fee for Supreme Court Appeal

Here, you’ll pay a fixed court fee of ₹250. On top of that, deposit ₹50,000 or 50% of compensation (whichever is lower). Payment must be crossed Demand Draft drawn on any bank. Address it to the Registrar, Supreme Court, New Delhi.

And yes—just like before, this deposit is refundable if you win.

Suppose, If you are aggrieved an order of the State Commission. Then, you can approach the National Commission. But, it should be within a period of thirty days.

Similarly, the appeal can be preferred after the expiry of 30 days. For the same reason mentioned earlier in Supra Para (State Commission). However, an application for condonation of delay is required. As usual, a certified copy of the order of the State Commission is mandatory.

How to Draft a Winning Legal Notice (Template Included)

(Free Download Link at Bottom)

1. Content Framework

📌 Header

• “Legal Notice Under Consumer Protection Act 2019”
• Your & company’s full addresses

📌 Body (Follow this sequence)
1️⃣ Fact Timeline

• “On [date], purchased [product] (Invoice #123)”
• “On [date], defect observed ([photo/video proof])”

2️⃣ Your Efforts

• “Despite 3 emails ([dates]) and 2 calls ([dates]), issue unresolved”
• Attach: Screenshots, service tickets, call logs as “Annexure A, B…”

3️⃣ Admit Mistakes (If Any)

• “I acknowledge delayed reporting 7 days due to [reason]”

4️⃣ Demand Clause

• *”Rectify within 15 days or refund ₹X + ₹Y compensation”*

5️⃣ Legal Warning

• “Failure will compel consumer complaint under Section 35”

2. Tone & Delivery Rules

⚖️ Language

• ✅ “This constitutes my final request before legal action”
• ❌ Never write “I’ll ruin your business”

📮 Sending Protocol

• Send via Registered AD + Email (CEO & grievance officer)
• Keep: Postal receipt + tracking screenshot + email read receipt

Sector-Specific Deadlines

Pro Checklist

✔️ All dates in DD/MM/YYYY format
✔️ Mention exact product/model numbers
✔️ Calculate compensation legally (download our calculator)

Free Resources:
[📥Click here to download Legal Notice Template]

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do you need an advocate to file a consumer case?

A simple answer, No!
A consumer can file his/her case ‘Party in Person‘.

No Legal Jargon Needed: Courts prioritize facts & evidence over complex arguments.

So, a consumer need not to worry about defense advocate. Most of the consumer courts are friendly. Panels often help unrepresented consumers.

When to Consider a Lawyer

➡️ Only if:

• Case involves >₹50 lakh compensation
• Opposite party hires aggressive counsel
• You’re uncomfortable speaking publicly

2. How long does it take to resolve the complaint at consumer court?

As per the Consumer Protection Act – “Every complaint shall be heard as expeditiously as possible. And endeavour shall be made to decide the complaint within three months from the date of receipt of notice opposite party where the complaint does not require analysis or testing of commodities. And within five months if it requires analysis or testing of commodities”

But, according to the study Vidhi Legal Policy –

“Out of all the cases disposed since establishment of Consumer Commissions till July 2019. 66.4% of complaints and appeals filed in the State Commission (KARNATAKA) and 65.3% of the complaints filed in District Commissions Bengaluru took more than five months for their disposal.”

Surprisingly, 70 to 85 per cent of the total number of disposals in the five-year analysis period (2013 to 2017) happened in the first two years of filing.

3. What types of cases are admitted in the Consumer Forums?

Generally, Cases such as –

1. an unfair trade practice or a restrictive trade practice.
2. defective goods.
3. deficiency in service.
4. Overcharging on MRP
5. Sale of hazardous goods
6. Sale of unsafe goods
7. Any Such other cases.

4. Can a complaint be filed on behalf of some other person?

Yes, an appeal or complaint can be filed on behalf of the actual consumer. However, the consumer must appear at least once in the Consumer Court. But what if the consumer is too weak or unwell? In such cases, the forum may allow evidence to be recorded from the consumer’s home.

For example, this is often permitted for senior citizens or seriously ill consumers. The law always tries to balance justice with compassion.

👉 [Click here] to download free format of Authorisation.

5. Do Consumer Forums provide legal help?

Absolutely Yes! Any consumer can approach Consumer Forums for any legal assistance.
Google Search “Contact” <space> “District Name” <space> “Consumer Forum”

6. Is there a Mediation Process in the Consumer Forum?

Definitely, section 37 of the CP Act 2019 provides provisions for settlement through meditation. But, you need to confirm with the district forum, if there is any mediation cell attached to it.

7. How does Mediation works?

At the first hearing of the complaint or at any later stage. – District commission may direct parties to give their consent, to settle mediation within 5 days.

8. What if mediation fails to resolve your dispute?

In case of failure mediation, you can approach consumer forum.

9. What are the chances of Consumers receiving compensation if they have a genuine complaint?

Especially, in cases where consumers have strong evidences. Then, there is a major chance of them winning the case. According to the Study, Overall winning rate in Karnataka State Commission is 51.8%. While, the decisions against the consumers are at 24.3%.

10. In case the orders are not implemented, what is the remedy available to the aggrieved person?

In such a case, the consumer can file an Execution Petition.

 Click here to download format of Execution Petition.

 11. Can several consumers file a joint complaint?

Yes, several consumers can file a joint complaint. For instance, just add Complainant 1, Complainant 2 and so on.,

12. Are students a ‘Consumer’ under Consumer Protection Act 2019?

In a landmark case, Bhupesh Khurana and others vs Vishwa Buddha Parishad and others, It was held that fees are paid for the services to be rendered way of education the educational institutions.

Thus, students hire services of the institutions for attaining education. Hence students are consumers within the meaning of this Act. In case of, Girish.N.P vs Sree Kongadiyappa Degree College, Bengaluru Consumer Forum ordered to “return marks card with total compensation of Rs.10,000.”

13. Are patients a Consumer under Consumer Protection Act 2019 ?

Yes ✅ The services of doctors are covered under this Act. Once you pay a doctor’s fee, you instantly become a consumer of medical services.

But what if treatment is free? Even then, you are a beneficiary under the Act. Therefore, you are still protected as a consumer. As a result, patients can file consumer cases against doctors for negligence. In fact, thousands of medical negligence complaints are filed across India every year.

14. What are different sectors under which Consumer Complaints are filed

Consumer complaints are filed under various sectors such as –

Agriculture, Airline, Automobile, Banking, Contract, Domestic Fuel, eCommerce, Education, Electronic goods, electricity, Finance, Food and Beverages, Government Corporation, Housing, Immigration, Industries, Insurance, Medical, Postal, Railway, Telecom, Textile, Transport, Tourism, Trust, Water etc.,

15. What are the new changes made in Consumer Protection Act 2019?

The Act brings stronger rights and faster remedies for consumers. Firstly, you can now claim compensation for injuries from defective products or services. Secondly, strict punishments apply to manufacturers or sellers found guilty of violations.

Moreover, video conferencing hearings are now allowed for consumer cases. Additionally, eCommerce companies must acknowledge complaints within 48 hours. Finally, they must also resolve complaints within 30 days. 🚀

16. Can You File a Consumer Complaint After 2 Years?

Yes ✅ You still can, but only with valid reasons for delay. For instance, medical emergencies, natural disasters, or long settlement attempts. However, you must also show proof, such as hospital records or emails.

Here’s how you can make it work smoothly:

1️⃣ First, write a Delay Condonation Application.
👉 For Example, you can write “Due to hospitalization from [dates], I couldn’t file within time.” This explains why the complaint was late.

2️⃣ Next, attach supporting documents for credibility.
📌 For instance, Medical certificates, police reports, or company emails showing delay reasons. The stronger your evidence, the higher your acceptance chances.

3️⃣ Finally, submit it alongside your main complaint. Remember, there is no extra fee for this step. So, don’t skip it — it strengthens your entire case.

👉 Bottom line: With persistence and solid proof, even late complaints get admitted.

17. Which is the best site for Consumer Case Stories in India?