Parliamentary Committee Highlights Ineffective SCPCs in North East

December 21, 2023

A Parliamentary Standing Committee has raised concerns over the lack of proper functioning of State Consumer Protection Councils (SCPCs) in northeastern states of India. The committee, in its report, emphasized the need for fulfilling the mandates of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 in each state to ensure that consumers in the region are aware of their rights and have confidence in the consumer protection system.

Key Points

Concerns Raised: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Food, Consumer Affairs, and Public Distribution expressed dissatisfaction with the ineffective functioning of State Consumer Protection Councils (SCPCs) in northeastern states.
Mandates of Consumer Protection Act: The committee highlighted that Section 6(3) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 mandates that SCPCs should meet as necessary, but not less than two meetings per year. Section 8 of the Act prescribes the establishment of District Consumer Protection Councils (DCPCs) in each district.
State-wise Observations:
- Arunachal Pradesh: SCPC constituted, but no meetings held. 18 DCPCs constituted.
- Tripura, Mizoram, Sikkim: No formation of commissions at state and district levels.
- Manipur, Nagaland: One and eleven district commissions, respectively, without SCPC.
- Assam: SCPC constituted but no meetings held.
- Meghalaya: SCPC constituted and held meetings.
Committee’s Recommendation: The committee urged the Central Government to ensure the fulfillment of mandates specified in Sections 6(3) and 8 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 in each northeastern state. This is seen as essential to instill confidence among consumers in the region regarding their rights and protection.
Objective: The aim is to bridge the gaps in the consumer protection system in the northeastern states and align them with the national framework, fostering a sense of belonging and assurance among consumers.