Consumer Awareness And The Institutional Framework For Consumer Protection In India

Aayusman Tiwari, School of Law, Christ (deemed to be) University

Saurav Dwivedi, School of Law, Christ (deemed to be) University

ABSTRACT

The present paper is an analysis of Consumer Awareness among undergraduate students in India. It provides a brief review of consumer laws, the wide range of harmful practices in the market milieu, and remedial measures. It argues for a strong and organised consumer movement to create a healthy environment to safeguard the interests of the consumers. The purpose of this study is to assess awareness among consumers. The maxim, ‘Caveat emptor’ (let the buyer beware) holds importance in the Indian scenario. The research methodology adopted in this paper includes both doctrinal and non-doctrinal approaches. Enforcement bottlenecks and procedural delays often impede timely justice delivery. Additionally, the digital realm presents novel issues demanding innovative solutions. Bridging the awareness gap through consumer education campaigns becomes important. Based on the findings, the awareness initiatives in force are not full proof for consumer protection. Furthermore, a survey conducted amongst non-law students pursuing an undergraduate degree indicates a lack of awareness of consumer rights or redressal mechanisms. The paper shows the lack of consumer awareness and highlights the urgency of ‘consumerism’ movements for the protection of consumer rights.

Keywords: Awareness Programmes, Educational Initiatives, Institutional Framework, Online Transactions, Safeguards