Tag: cooperatives and consumer empowerment

RTI Bill was passed in Lok Sabha on 11th May 2005, and in Rajya Sabha on 12th May 2005. It received the assent of President of India on 15th June 2005 and was published in the Gazette of India on 21st June 2005. RTI Act, 2005 came into force with effect from 12th October 2005 and known as Right to Information Act, 2005. It is derived from our fundamental right of freedom of speech and expression under Article 19 of the Constitution. The Act mandates timely response to citizen requests for government information.

The Right to be Heard gives the consumer the right to represent himself or to be heard or the right to advocate his interest. In case a consumer has been exploited or has any complaint against the product or service then he has the right to be heard and be assured that his/her interest would receive due consideration. This right includes the right to representation in the government and in other policy-making bodies. Under this right, the companies must have complaint cells to attend the complaints of customers.

Right to Choose means the right to be assured, wherever possible of access to a variety of goods and services at competitive price. According to this right, every consumer has the right to choose the goods or services of his or her likings. The right to choose means an assurance of availability, ability and access to a variety of products and services at competitive price and competitive price means just or fair price. The producer or supplier or retailer should not force the customer to buy a particular brand only. The consumer should be free to choose the most suitable product from his point of view.