In this post we will discuss about the need to shift from traditional methods of litigation to online methods in times of the pandemic.

Allow people to file complaints online

Introduction

Online filing of Consumer Complaints in India
Online filing of Consumer Complaints in India

Consumer activist advocate Ajay Jagga has written to the UT administrator, VP Singh Badnore, seeking facility of filing consumer complaints online.

Facts of the case

Jagga said in the wake of the Prime Minster’s call for a Digital India and in view of the Covid – 19 situation, he requested that the facility of filing online complaints under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 be considered for the consumers of Chandigarh.

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Legal Standpoint

“Hearing may also be done through video conferencing” Jagga stated. Criminal cases in todays days are heard via videoconferencing, then there should be no bar as to why consumer cases cannot be held through video conferencing. It would certainly act as a great achievement and milestone for the Chandigarh administration. If this is implemented, the consumers will not need to visit offices of the consumer courts or advocate and they will be able to file complaint from their homes.

Payment of portal exists and there is only the need to be connected. Further, under the new Consumer Protection Act and Rules, 2020 there is no fee for claims up to 5 lakh hence for major number of complaints, there would not be any fees at all.

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Conclusion

Jagga through his complaint raised the concern to shift online in times of this pandemic.

This post was written by Kasha Doshi

For case specific advice, please contact Punjab Haryana High Court Best/Expert Lawyers Advocates for Consumer cases in Chandigarh Panchkula Mohali. This post is written Vishishta Mishra

For more info, dial 99888-17966