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RAS (RPSC) 5 min read

Consumer Protection (COPRA)

Chapter Summary

The Consumer Protection Act (COPRA) was enacted on 24 December 1986 to provide better protection of the interests of consumers. It established a three-tier quasi-judicial machinery. The consumer movement in India has roots in Maharashtra (1904) and the efforts of C. Rajagopalachari in Madras (1949).

Historical Background

  • 9 April 1985: UN General Assembly adopted guidelines for consumer protection.
  • 24 December 1986: COPRA passed by Indian Parliament. Hence, 24 December is celebrated as Consumer Day.
  • 1949: C. Rajagopalachari established the Consumer Protection Council in Madras.

Consumer Rights

  • Right to Safety
  • Right to Information
  • Right to Choice
  • Right to be Heard
  • Right to Redressal
  • Right to Consumer Education

Three-Tier Redressal Machinery (As per Book/1986 Act)

Level Composition Jurisdiction (1986 Act)
District Forum President + 2 Members (1 Woman) Compensation up to Rs 20 Lakhs.
State Commission President (HC Judge) + Min. 2 Members Compensation between Rs 20 Lakhs and Rs 1 Crore. Appeals against District Forum.
National Commission President (SC Judge) + Min. 4 Members Compensation above Rs 1 Crore. Appeals against State Commission.
⚠️ RAS Current Affairs Update (2019 Act):
The 1986 Act has been replaced by the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. Current pecuniary limits (revised 2021) are:
  • District: Up to Rs 50 Lakhs
  • State: Rs 50 Lakhs to Rs 2 Crores
  • National: Above Rs 2 Crores

Filing a Complaint

  • Who can file: A consumer, voluntary consumer association, Central/State Government.
  • Fees (2004 Rules):
    • Up to 1 Lakh: Rs 100
    • 1 Lakh - 5 Lakhs: Rs 200
    • 5 Lakhs - 10 Lakhs: Rs 400
    • 10 Lakhs - 20 Lakhs: Rs 500
  • Procedure: Simple application on plain paper. No lawyer required.

In this Chapter

Consumer Protection (COPRA)
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