consumer complaint in india
  1. What Is a Consumer Complaint?
  2. Is It Legal to File a Consumer Complaint in India?
    1. Yes, It Is 100% Legal
  3. Who Can File a Consumer Complaint?
  4. Common Grounds for Filing a Legal Consumer Complaint
    1. Defective Goods
    2. Deficiency in Services
    3. Overcharging or Hidden Charges
    4. False or Misleading Advertisements
    5. Online Frauds or E-commerce Issues
  5. Where Can a Legal Consumer Complaint Be Filed?
  6. Is Online Complaint Filing Legal?
    1. Steps:
  7. Legal Validity of Consumer Complaints
  8. Time Limit for Filing a Legal Complaint
  9. Can Businesses Be Penalized?
  10. Why File a Legal Consumer Complaint?
  11. How Edrafter.in Can Help
    1. Our Services Include:
  12. Conclusion

In India, consumers often face issues such as defective products, poor services, hidden charges, delayed deliveries, or unethical business practices. Many people wonder, “Is it legal to file a consumer complaint in India?” The simple answer is yes. Filing a consumer complaint is a legal right of every consumer under Indian law.

This blog will help you understand the legality, procedure, and benefits of filing a consumer complaint in India under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.

What Is a Consumer Complaint?

A consumer complaint refers to a grievance filed by a consumer when goods or services purchased are found to be defective, deficient, unfair, or deceptive. The complaint can be filed against:

  • A manufacturer
  • A seller or retailer
  • A service provider
  • An online platform or app

The complaint must be genuine and supported by proper documentation such as invoices, receipts, communication records, etc.

Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, any consumer can legally file a complaint against a seller or service provider for unfair trade practices, defective goods, or deficiency in service. The law empowers consumers to seek:

  • Replacement or refund
  • Compensation for damages
  • Removal of defects
  • Penalty or corrective action against the business

This law ensures that the consumer is no longer the weaker party in a transaction.

Who Can File a Consumer Complaint?

According to the Consumer Protection Act, the following individuals/entities can file a complaint:

  • A consumer (individual who bought goods or services)
  • A registered consumer association
  • The legal heir or representative of a deceased consumer
  • A group of consumers with similar grievances
  • Central or State Government

This means you do not need to be a lawyer to file a complaint—you can do it yourself or through a legal representative.

Some of the legally valid reasons to file a complaint include:

1. Defective Goods

If the goods bought are damaged, expired, malfunctioning, or different from what was advertised.

2. Deficiency in Services

Delayed service, unprofessional behavior, partial work, or incomplete service delivery.

3. Overcharging or Hidden Charges

Charging more than the MRP or adding undisclosed fees.

4. False or Misleading Advertisements

When a product or service does not match the claims made in ads or packaging.

5. Online Frauds or E-commerce Issues

Wrong product delivery, no delivery, or return/refund denial by an online seller.

The Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions (commonly called Consumer Courts) are the legal forums where complaints are filed.

As per the new structure under the 2019 Act:

Forum LevelJurisdiction Amount
District CommissionUp to ₹50 Lakhs
State Commission₹50 Lakhs to ₹2 Crores
National CommissionAbove ₹2 Crores

You can file a case based on the value of goods/services or the compensation claimed.

Yes, the Indian government has launched a platform called E-Daakhil where consumers can file complaints online in a legally valid format. The website makes it easier to submit grievances without visiting court premises.

Steps:

  1. Register on edaakhil.nic.in
  2. Fill in complaint details
  3. Upload documents (bill, warranty card, etc.)
  4. Pay the prescribed fee
  5. Track your complaint status online

The E-Daakhil system is integrated with the Consumer Commissions and is recognized under the law.

A consumer complaint filed under the Act:

  • Has legal standing in Indian courts
  • Is heard by a judge or presiding officer
  • Can lead to court-ordered compensation or penalties
  • Is governed by a defined legal timeline

If the opposite party fails to respond or resolve the matter, the Consumer Commission has powers to issue binding legal orders.

A consumer complaint should be filed within two years from the date on which the cause of action arises. However, the court may allow late filing if valid reasons are provided.

Can Businesses Be Penalized?

Yes, if the court finds that the seller or service provider:

  • Cheated the consumer
  • Knowingly provided defective goods
  • Refused to refund/repair
  • Misled through advertisements

Then the court may impose:

  • Monetary compensation
  • Product recall
  • Penalty or imprisonment (in extreme cases)
  • Ban from operating in some cases

Filing a legal complaint ensures:

  • Your voice is heard
  • Wrongdoers are held accountable
  • You may receive monetary compensation
  • It prevents others from facing similar issues

It also strengthens consumer rights awareness in the country.

How Edrafter.in Can Help

At edrafter.in, we help you file consumer complaints legally and efficiently, with the help of experienced advocates.

Our Services Include:

  • Legal consultation with experts
  • Drafting of the consumer complaint
  • Sending legal notice to the opposite party
  • Filing complaint on E-Daakhil or consumer court
  • Follow-up and case tracking

Whether it’s an issue with an online seller, mobile app, real estate developer, bank, airline, or any service provider—we’ll help you get justice.

Conclusion

So, yes, filing a consumer complaint in India is absolutely legal and protected under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. If you’ve been wronged as a consumer, don’t hesitate to raise your voice. The law is on your side.