Chandigarh
15 March 2017
DIVYA AZAD
The Department of Public Administration, Panjab University, Chandigarh in collaboration with Regional Branch of Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) Panjab and Chandigarh (UT) organised a “Panel Discussion on Consumer Protection Act, 1986: An Assessment to commemorate World Consumer Rights Day” on March 15, 2017 (Wednesday).
Professor B.S. Ghuman, Dean Faculty of Arts and Honorary Secretary, IIPA Regional Branch while introducing the theme explained the rationale behind the enactment of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 for providing remedy to consumer against the exploitative practices of the market. He suggested that the consumer complaints may be addressed in cost-effective, time-bound and simple manner as per the philosophy of Consumer Protection Act.
Mrs. Madhu P. Singh, Advocate Punjab and Haryana High Court and former President of District Consumer Forum, SAS Nagar Mohali stated that the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 empowers the citizen and provides a redressal mechanism of grievances against malpractices by manufacturers / service providers. She further added that the Consumer Protection Act is not adequate to deal with issues arising out of increasing volume of e-commerce ie. Online sale and purchase of goods and services.
Dr (Mrs.) Madanjit Kaur Sahota, Member, Juvenile Justice Board, Chandigarh and former Member, District Consumer Forum, Chandigarh said that most of the cases that come to consumer courts relates to poor quality of products sold by the sellers. She also emphasized on spreading awareness about the Act among citizens.
Dr. Cheena Gambhir, Assistant Professor, Government College for Girls, Sector 11, Chandigarh pointed that the existing Consumer Protection Act, 1986 is to be replaced by Consumer Protection Bill, 2015 having added features such as E-commerce, unfair contract, advertisement of brands etc.
The discussion was moderated by Prof. B.S. Ghuman. The presentations were followed by formal discussion in which Mr. Parminder, Mr. Manmeet. Mr. Sandeep, Mr. Mansoor, Mr. Reza and Ms. Parul participated.
Professor Ramanjit Kaur Johal, Chairperson, Department of Public Administration proposed the vote of thanks.
