From Protection To Empowerment: A Comparative Analysis Of The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 And 2019 In India
- IJLLR Journal
- Oct 18, 2025
- 1 min read
U. Kasipandian, President, District Consumer Disputes Redressal commission, Kancheepuram District@ Chengalpattu.
ABSTRACT
The evolution of consumer protection in India reflects the nation’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and interests of its consumers. The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 laid the foundation for structured consumer grievance redressal, providing mechanisms for complaint filing and adjudication through consumer forums. However, over time, limitations such as inadequate coverage of emerging digital markets, lack of clarity on product liability, and procedural delays necessitated legislative reform. In response, the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 was enacted, emphasizing not only protection but also consumer empowerment, addressing modern challenges such as e-commerce disputes, misleading advertisements, and advanced mediation mechanisms. A comparative analysis of the 1986 and 2019 Acts, highlighting the evolution in scope, rights, and redressal mechanisms. The study explores the strengths and weaknesses of both legislations, examines landmark judicial interpretations, and evaluates their effectiveness in addressing contemporary consumer disputes. Through a systematic assessment, it identifies the significant shift from reactive grievance redressal to proactive consumer empowerment, reflecting a broader understanding of consumer welfare in the digital era. Furthermore, the implementation challenges, including consumer awareness, accessibility to forums, and effective regulation of e-commerce and digital transactions. By integrating legal provisions, case laws, and scholarly perspectives, the study provides a holistic view of consumer protection in India, offering insights for policymakers, legal practitioners, and consumers. The findings underscore the need for continuous adaptation of legal frameworks to ensure robust consumer rights and sustainable market practices.
Keywords: Consumer Protection, Consumer Rights, Consumer Protection Act, 1986, Consumer Protection Act, 2019, Redressal Mechanisms
