🛍️ Class 10 Economics Chapter 5 – Consumer Rights

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In this post, we will learn all about consumer rights, how consumers can be exploited, and what protections they have under the law.

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🧑‍⚖️ I. Who is a Consumer?

A consumer is any person who:

• Buys goods or services for personal use

• Pays or agrees to pay for them

• Is not reselling the goods

Example: If you buy a mobile phone for your own use, you're a consumer.

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🚫 II. How are Consumers Exploited?

Consumers often face unfair practices in the market, such as:

➡️ Consumers have the right to be protected from these practices.

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⚖️ III. Consumer Rights (As per the Consumer Protection Act)

1. Right to Safety

   • Protection from hazardous goods and services

   • Example: Safe electrical appliances

2. Right to be Informed

   • Information about price, ingredients, expiry, quality

   • Example: MRP, nutrition labels, manufacturing date

3. Right to Choose

   • Access to a variety of goods and services at competitive prices

   • No forced selling

4. Right to be Heard

   • Consumer grievances must be heard by authorities

5. Right to Seek Redressal

   • Right to compensation for faulty goods/services

   • Legal action through consumer courts

6. Right to Consumer Education

   • Awareness about rights and laws

   • Example: "Jago Grahak Jago" campaign

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🏛️ IV. Consumer Protection Act, 1986 (COPRA)

• Introduced to protect consumers' interests

• Gives legal backing to consumer rights

• Allows consumers to file complaints in Consumer Courts

✅ COPRA was amended in 2019 to include e-commerce and online frauds

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🧑‍⚖️ V. Consumer Courts in India

There are three levels of consumer courts:

📌 Consumers can file complaints without a lawyer and with minimal fees

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🧾 VI. How Can Consumers Protect Themselves?

1. Always check:

   • MRP

   • Expiry date

   • ISI/AGMARK/Hallmark symbols

2. Collect proper bills and receipts

3. File complaints when needed via:

   • Consumer courts

   • National Helpline: 1800-11-4000

   • Online at: https://consumerhelpline.gov.in

4. Join consumer awareness groups

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🧠 VII. Standardization Marks in India

These ensure quality and safety of goods.

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📚 VIII. Key Terms

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✅ Summary Table

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📝 Sample Exam Questions

1. List any four consumer rights.

2. What is the role of consumer courts?

3. Explain the importance of the “Right to be Informed.”

4. What is the function of COPRA?