Central Consumer Protection Authority

The union ministry of consumer affairs announced that the Central Consumer Protection Authority will be set up in the first week of April.

• Under which act is the CCPA to be constituted?

The CCPA is to be constituted under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. The 2019 act has replaced the Consumer Protection Act of 1986. The authority is to be constituted as per the provisions of section 10(1) of the 2019 act.

• What will be the structure of CCPA?

The CCPA is to have a ‘lean body’ with a chief commissioner heading it. Its other two members are to be commissioners. One of the commissioners will deal with cases regarding goods while the other will deal with cases regarding services.

• Can the CCPA investigate issues suo motu?

The CCPA can investigate cases suo motu. It can also look into issues upon receiving complaints from consumers or upon direction by the central government. It will look into cases about consumer rights violation and unfair trade practices. The rules for the CCPA’s functioning and composition is being framed by the consumer affairs ministry.

• Will the CCPA replace the National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission?

The CCPA will not be replacing the National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission. The former is to be a regulator while the latter is a quasi-judicial body. The CCPA will be able to file complaints with the National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission.