Give a brief account on the cosumer rights of the citizens in India.

Consumer rights in India have been guaranteed by the Consumer Protection Act of 1986. December 24, the day on which this legislation was enacted, is observed as the Consumer Rights Day in India. It recognises the following six consumer rights in India:

i) Right to safety- It is the right to be protected against goods that are hazardous to life and property. It includes hazardous food substances, pharmaceuticals, appliances, automobiles, etc.

ii) The Right to Information- It is the right to be informed about the quality, quantity, standard and price of goods or services in order to protect the consumers against unfair trade practices and hidden costs.

iii) Right to Choose- It is the right to have access to different varieties of goods and services at competitive prices and whether to continue receiving a service.

iv) Right to be heard- It is the right of the consumer to air his/her grievances at appropriate forums in order for them to be heard.

v) Right to Redressal- It is the right to seek redressal against unfair and restrictive trade practices and exploitation of consumers. Cases with claims of less than 20 lakhs are heard at the district forum, claims between 20 lakh and 1 crore are heard at state forums while claims above 1 crore are heard at the national consumer court.

vi) Right to consumer education- It is the right to be educated about consumer protection and grievance redressal mechanisms.