Consumer Complaint Format

उपभोक्ता शिकायत प्रारूप

Legal Notices Updated: 2025-02-28

Overview

A consumer complaint is a formal grievance filed before a Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. It can be filed for deficiency in service, defective goods, unfair trade practices, or overcharging.
Hindi उपभोक्ता शिकायत उपभोक्ता संरक्षण अधिनियम, 2019 के तहत उपभोक्ता विवाद निवारण आयोग के समक्ष दायर की जाने वाली एक औपचारिक शिकायत है।

When to Use This Format

  • When you receive defective goods or deficient services
  • For unfair or restrictive trade practices by sellers
  • When overcharged for goods or services beyond MRP
  • For misleading advertisements or false claims
  • When a seller refuses refund or replacement for defective products

Key Components

  1. 1 Forum Details

    Name of the appropriate Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission based on claim value.

  2. 2 Complainant Details

    Name, address, and contact details of the consumer filing the complaint.

  3. 3 Opposite Party Details

    Name, address, and details of the seller, manufacturer, or service provider.

  4. 4 Facts of the Case

    Chronological narration of events with dates, amounts, and description of the defect or deficiency.

  5. 5 Relief Sought

    Specific compensation, refund, replacement, or damages being claimed.

  6. 6 Supporting Documents

    Bills, receipts, warranty cards, correspondence, and photos of defective goods.

Sample Format

Download Word Document
BEFORE THE DISTRICT CONSUMER DISPUTES REDRESSAL COMMISSION AT [CITY/DISTRICT] Consumer Complaint No. _____ of 2025 [Consumer Name] [Address] ... Complainant Versus [Company/Seller Name] [Address] ... Opposite Party CONSUMER COMPLAINT UNDER SECTION 35 OF THE CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT, 2019 The complainant respectfully submits as follows: 1. That the complainant is a consumer within the meaning of Section 2(7) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. 2. That on [Date], the complainant purchased [Product/Service] from the opposite party for Rs. _____/- (Receipt/Invoice No. _____ dated _____). 3. That the said product/service was found to be defective/deficient in the following manner: [Describe the defect or deficiency]. 4. That the complainant brought this to the notice of the opposite party on [Date] through [letter/email/phone], but no satisfactory response was received. 5. That due to the defect/deficiency, the complainant has suffered [describe loss or inconvenience]. PRAYER The complainant prays that this Hon'ble Commission may: (a) Direct the opposite party to refund Rs. _____/- paid for the product/service; (b) Direct compensation of Rs. _____/- for mental agony and inconvenience; (c) Direct Rs. _____/- towards cost of litigation; (d) Grant any other relief as deemed fit. Date: _______________ Place: _______________ (Signature of Complainant) VERIFICATION I, [Name], do hereby verify that the contents of the above complaint are true to the best of my knowledge and belief. (Signature)

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Send a Written Complaint First

Write to the seller/company giving them a chance to resolve the issue. Keep copies of all correspondence.

2

Identify the Right Forum

District Commission (up to Rs. 1 crore), State Commission (Rs. 1-10 crore), National Commission (above Rs. 10 crore).

3

Draft the Complaint

Prepare the complaint on plain paper with all facts, relief sought, and supporting documents.

4

File the Complaint

File in person, by post, or online at edaakhil.nic.in (the e-filing portal for consumer cases).

5

Pay Court Fee

Pay the nominal court fee based on claim value (starts from Rs. 200 for claims up to Rs. 5 lakh).

6

Attend Hearings

Appear on hearing dates. You can argue in person or through an advocate (advocate is not mandatory).

Important Notes

  • Consumer complaints must be filed within 2 years from the date of cause of action.
  • No court fee is required for claims up to Rs. 5 lakh in some states.
  • E-filing is available at edaakhil.nic.in - you can file complaints online from anywhere.
  • An advocate is not mandatory - consumers can argue their own case.
  • The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 also covers e-commerce transactions and online purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file a consumer complaint online?

Yes, consumer complaints can be filed online through the National Consumer Helpline portal (consumerhelpline.gov.in) for grievance resolution, or through edaakhil.nic.in for filing formal consumer cases before the Consumer Commissions.

What is the time limit for filing a consumer complaint?

A consumer complaint must be filed within 2 years from the date when the cause of action arises. However, the Commission can condone delay if sufficient cause is shown for not filing within time.

Do I need a lawyer to file a consumer complaint?

No, a lawyer is not mandatory for filing a consumer complaint. The Consumer Protection Act allows consumers to present their own case. However, having a lawyer can be helpful for complex cases or higher-value claims.

Legal Disclaimer

This format is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. The format may need to be adapted based on specific circumstances, applicable laws, and jurisdictional requirements. Always consult a qualified advocate or legal professional before filing any legal document. For more details, see our Disclaimer.

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