Consumer disputes can arise from a number of reasons. Either party may not have understood the terms of the contract; there could be an error in the product or service delivered; or even amicable resolutions to these situations can break down due to pride or stubbornness. In any case, consumer disputes are quite common but fortunately, we have regulators who look out for our interests and provide assistance in resolving them. The Consumer Disputes Redressal Agency (CEDRA) is a quasi-judicial body established by the government in 2000 to handle consumer complaints and grievances with businesses that offer goods and services to consumers in India. They also advise consumers on their rights and obligations during the course of business transactions, mediate between consumers and sellers where necessary, and take up cases on their behalf in court if required. This article will explain how CEDRA works as well as what you need to know about it if you find yourself in a dispute with a provider of goods or services.
What is the Consumer Disputes Redressal Agency?
The Consumer Disputes Redressal Agency is a quasi-judicial body that was established by the government of India in 2000 to handle consumer complaints and grievances with businesses that offer goods and services to consumers in India. They also advise consumers on their rights and obligations during the course of business transactions, mediate between consumers and sellers where necessary, and take up cases on their behalf in court if required. As a quasi-judicial body, the primary role of CEDRA is to advise and assist consumers in resolving disputes without having to go to court. However, if the seller is not cooperative or does not respond to CEDRA’s request for a resolution, CEDRA can take the seller to court for a resolution.
What does CEDRA do?
The primary function of CEDRA is to advise and assist consumers in resolving disputes without having to go to court. However, if the seller is not cooperative or does not respond to CEDRA’s request for a resolution, CEDRA can take the seller to court for a resolution. CEDRA can help you with the following disputes: – A defective product or poor service – If you bought something that doesn’t work or doesn’t meet the standards it promised to deliver or if you hired a service that didn’t meet expectations, CEDRA can help you resolve the dispute. – A breach of contract – If there is a failure or delay in the delivery of a product or service, CEDRA can help you receive compensation or a refund. – Unpaid or delayed payments – If you paid someone for a product or service but they failed to deliver or pay you, CEDRA can help you receive the payment that is due to you.
How to file a case with CEDRA?
If you are in a dispute with someone over a product or service and the dispute can be resolved by way of conciliation or arbitration, you can file a complaint with the nearest CEDRA office in your area. CEDRA offices are located in every state and union territory. You can find the contact details of your nearest office on the CEDRA website. If the dispute is regarding an amount less than Rs. 2 lakh, you can file a complaint online with CEDRA. The CEDRA website also has a list of dispute cases that are currently pending in the system.
Why use CEDRA instead of filing in court directly?
While it may be tempting to take a company to court over a dispute and get the best result, there are a few reasons why you may want to use CEDRA as an alternative. Firstly, CEDRA processes cases quickly. You may have a six-month or one-year time frame to file a case in court, but you can file a complaint with CEDRA within three years of the dispute taking place. CEDRA also has a quick and easy process for filing a dispute. You can file a complaint online or in person at your nearest CEDRA office.
How long does it take for your case to be resolved by CEDRA?
This differs from case to case. CEDRA tries to resolve all cases within six months of receiving them. However, this may vary depending on the nature and complexity of the dispute. If CEDRA is unable to resolve the dispute within six months, they will inform both parties and give them an opportunity to respond to the resolution. If both parties agree to the resolution, the dispute will be resolved. If either party disagrees with the resolution, they can approach the Consumer Disp
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