Various efforts have been made by Government and Non-government Organizations to protect the interest of consumer but exploitation of consumer will stop only when consumer himself will come forward to safeguard his own interest.
Consumers have to bear some responsibilities which are :
- To provide Adequate Information to the Seller : The consumer has the responsibility to provide adequate information about his needs and expectations to the seller. This would enable the seller to provide right kind of products and services to the consumers.
- To Exercise Caution in Purchasing : The consumer must try to get full information on the quality, design, utility, quantity, price, etc. of the product before purchasing it. Thus, he should not buy blindly.
- To Insist on Cash Memo or Receipt : The consumer must get a cash memo or receipt as a proof of purchase of goods from the seller. This would help him in making a complain to the seller in case of any defect in the goods. Further, if the goods (e.g. pressure cooker, T.V., Fridge, etc.) carry any warranty, the buyer must obtain the warranty card mentioning the date of purchase, and period of warranty. It must also bear the signature and stamp of the seller
- To be Quality Conscious : The consumer should never compromise on the quality of goods. While making a purchase, the consumer must look for standard quality certification marks such as ISI, Agmark, Wool mark, FPO (Fruit Product Order) Hall Mark, eco mark etc. For example, electric, electric iron must carry ISI mark.
- To be Cautious against False and Misleading Advertisements : The manufacturers/sellers often exaggerate the quality of their goods through advertisement. It is the responsibility of the consumer not to be carried away by such advertisements. If he finds any discrepancy in the features advertised and the actual features of the product, he must bring it to the notice of the seller or advertiser .
- To File Complaint against Genuine Grievances : The consumer must file a complaint with the seller or manufacturer about any defect or shortcoming in the products and services. He should neither consider it a waste of time nor overlook the defect considering it a small loss.
- To Exercise his Legal Rights : The consumer has right to safety, right to be informed, right to choose, right to representation, right to seek Redressal and right to seek information. If any of these rights in violated by the manufacturer or seller, the consumer must file a complaint with the legal machinery constituted under the Consumer Protection Act, 1986.
