A consumer complaint can be expressed as a type of grievance lodged by any consumer over dissatisfaction over a product or service. The complaints are at first dealt with the company the products are from. However, it can be directed to the government as well, when the said company fails to take any measures regarding the issue. Consumers need to know how to file customer complaints. There are several consumer helpline numbers available for the customers to file the complaint. Also, there is a set of rules which the consumer must adhere to before filing any grievances.
If the relief is less than 20 lakh rupees, the issue should be addressed at District Consumer Forum. When it exceeds 20 lakh but is less than one crore, it will be filed in the State Commission of the particular state. Beyond, one crore the complaint will go to National Commission in New Delhi.
Documents required while filing
While filing any consumer complaint, some documents are necessary for the legal procedures such as bill or invoice for that buy, if any warranty card is given while purchasing, proper address proof to show whether the company is registered. It can be acquired from the website bill or other things. However, if the bill was not available during the purchase, usually the details can be found in the accounts section of the company where all the information are entered. Other details that bring forth the negligence of the company can be provided, such as e-mails, telephone calls or SMS-es. Evidence such as bank statements can also be given.
How to file the Complaint?
While filing the complaint, you should attach all necessary photocopies of the documents. Identification proof is needed of the complainant such as PAN, Adhar Card, etc. Documents need to be notarized by seal and signature before filing the complaint. The court fee needs to be paid along with them as Demand Draft.
The fees differ in certain categories. Up to one lakh rupees, the fees are Rupees 100, from one lakh to five lakh rupees you have to pay 200 rupees, from five to ten lakh you need 300 rupees, above ten to twenty lakh rupees the amount needed is 400 rupees. Further, you have to visit the state commission which accepts the amount between twenty to fifty lakh rupees where you have to pay 2000 rupees and above fifty lakh to 1 crore rupees fee required is 4000 rupees. When the amount exceeds one crore rupees, the fee needed to pay is 5000 rupees. People below the poverty line having 'Antyodaya Anna Yojana' card do not have to pay any fee.
You have to make at least five copies of the complaint and keep one copy for yourself. It has to be ensured to visit all the hearing date to follow the proceedings. It has to be mentioned in the complaint the relief you are seeking, such as replacement of goods, removal of defects or refund of the products. The cost of the complaint can also be asked from the complaining party.
Conclusion
The limitation period from the lodge of the complaint is two years from the date of filing. In case of delay of proceedings, the complaint might still be taken weighing the gravity of the case and the reason for its delay. If several people have the same problem, they can file a single complaint. While filing the complaint, the customer might take the help of an advocate for advice; however, it comes with a fee.