Comparative Analysis Of The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 And Consumer Protection Act, 2019

M. Aashika & Boobesh.S, BCOM LLB (Hons), Sastra Deemed University, Thirumalaisamudaram, Thanjavur

INTRODUCTION

The Consumer Protection Act (CPA) of 1986 was introduced to protect the interests of consumers and ensure fair trade practices in India. However, with changing times and increasing complexities in consumer disputes, a new Consumer Protection Act was introduced in 2019 to address the gaps and limitations of the earlier act. The new Consumer Protection Act (CPA) of 2019 has brought in significant changes such as the establishment of the Central Consumer Protection Authority, the inclusion of e-commerce transactions, stricter penalties for false and misleading advertisements, and more. This article will compare the key provisions of the Consumer Protection Act 1986 and the Consumer Protection Act 2019, highlighting the similarities and differences between the two acts.

SCOPE

The Consumer Protection Acts of 1986 and 2019 will be contrasted in this article in five categories: coverage, redressal mechanisms, product liability, e-commerce, and penalties. We will look at the categories of goods, services, and transactions that each Act regulates, as well as the channels available for resolving consumer complaints and the authority and duties of these channels. We'll also contrast the rules covering product responsibility, online shopping, and the consequences of violating consumer rights. By doing so, we hope to give a thorough study of the two Acts and emphasise the improvements made in the 2019 Act to defend consumers' rights in India.