#consumer complaint procedure

Punjab State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission rules that issuing evidence directions at the preliminary stage-without affording parties an opportunity to be heard-violates natural justice principles under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. The decision reinforces procedural safeguards for complainants and opposite parties, ensuring fair adjudication before evidence is directed.

Uttarakhand State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission rules that written statements filed beyond the 45-day statutory limit under Section 38(1) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 are non-maintainable and must be struck off, even if the complainant does not object. This sets a strict procedural precedent for consumer forums, impacting respondents' default compliance with filing deadlines.