Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Consumer protection laws are designed to protect consumers from unfair trade practices, defective products, and deficient services.
These laws establish formal judicial bodies to hear and resolve consumer complaints efficiently.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Consumer Disputes Redressal Forums are established under the Consumer Protection Act in India.
First enacted in 1986 and updated in 2019, the Consumer Protection Act establishes a three-tier quasi-judicial system to resolve consumer grievances:
District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (District Forum): Hears cases up to a certain financial value.
State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (State Commission): Hears appeals from the district level and cases of intermediate value.
National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (National Commission): The highest consumer court, based in New Delhi.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act regulates quality standards and certification marks like ISI.
The Trade and Merchandise Marks Act regulates trademark registration and prevents brand counterfeiting.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Consumer Disputes Redressal Forums are governed by the Consumer Protection Act.