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Legal Information, Awareness & Public Resources
Free Legal Information Portal
Legal Information, Awareness & Public Resources
Complete step-by-step guide to filing and pursuing a consumer complaint in India under Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
Before filing a formal complaint, send a legal notice to the seller/service provider. This gives them an opportunity to resolve the matter amicably. The notice should clearly state the defect/deficiency, relief sought, and give 15-30 days for response.
Timeline: 1-7 daysPrepare complaint on plain paper (or as per state rules). It must include: complainant details, opposite party details, facts of the case, cause of action, limitation statement, relief sought, and verification affidavit. Get the affidavit notarized.
Timeline: 7-15 daysOnline (e-Daakhil): Register on e-daakhil portal, upload documents, pay fees digitally.
Offline: Submit 3-5 copies of complaint + documents to consumer court registry. Pay court fees based on claim amount.
Registry scrutinizes complaint for completeness. If defects found, time given for correction. Once satisfied, complaint is numbered and admitted. Court issues notice to opposite party.
Timeline: 15-30 daysCourt sends summons to opposite party with 30 days to file written statement (defense). If no response within 30 days, court may proceed ex-parte. Additional 15 days may be granted on request.
Timeline: 30-45 daysOpposite party files written statement admitting or denying allegations. If they fail to file defense within 45 days, right to file defense may be closed. Replication (rejoinder) can be filed by complainant.
Timeline: 30-45 daysBoth parties file evidence by way of affidavit. Documents are exhibited and marked. Opposite party can cross-examine complainant witnesses. Court may appoint expert/commissioner if needed.
Timeline: 30-90 daysBoth sides present oral arguments. Court may suggest mediation for settlement. If no settlement, court proceeds to pronounce final order based on evidence and law.
Timeline: 15-30 daysCourt passes final order granting relief (refund, compensation, replacement, costs). If opposite party fails to comply, file execution petition. Non-compliance is punishable with imprisonment or fine.
Timeline: 30-90 days for executionVisit https://edaakhil.nic.in/ and register as a consumer. Provide mobile number, email, and basic details. OTP verification required.
Select state, district, and consumer court. Enter complainant, opposite party, and case details as per format.
Upload all supporting documents in PDF format. Maximum size limits apply. Include invoice, communication proof, legal notice, etc.
Pay through net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI. Fees based on claim amount as per state rules.
Receive SMS/email updates. Login to portal to check case status, download orders, and file additional documents.