Consumer protection Bill cleared

The Cabinet on Wednesday gave its nod to a new Consumer Protection Bill, which seeks to replace the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 and proposes to set up a regulatory authority having the powers to recall products and initiate class action suit against defaulting companies, including e- tailers. The Bill assumes importance as there is growing concern over the safety of consumer products and services, especially after the Maggi controversy.

Sources say the Bill might be introduced in the ongoing session of Parliament. The move comes in the backdrop of complex products and services in ecommerce, which has rendered consumers vulnerable to new forms of unfair trade and unethical business practices.

Business Standard, New Delhi, 30th July 2015

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