New Delhi: Buying a defective fridge? Mobile service provider overcharging you? Insurance company denying your claim? Most consumers in India face such situations but remain silent, thinking legal action is too complicated or costly.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!But the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 has given every Indian the power to fight for their rights through a simple and accessible system – the Consumer Forum.
In this detailed guide, we explain how to file a case in Consumer Forum, the required documents, fee structure, and even a ready-to-use draft complaint sample.
What is a Consumer Forum?
Consumer Forums, officially known as Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions (CDRCs), are special courts that deal only with consumer-related complaints. These forums ensure speedy justice and low-cost proceedings.
They are structured at three levels:
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District Commission (DCDRC): For cases up to ₹50 lakhs
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State Commission (SCDRC): For cases above ₹50 lakhs and up to ₹2 crores
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National Commission (NCDRC): For cases above ₹2 crores
When Can You File a Case?
You can approach Consumer Forum when:
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A defective product is sold to you
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A service provider fails to deliver as promised (banking, insurance, healthcare, telecom, etc.)
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Misleading advertisements cause loss
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Online shopping scams or delivery of fake items
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Warranty/Guarantee not honored
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Excessive billing or hidden charges by service providers
Before Filing the Case
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Collect Evidence – Bills, warranty cards, invoices, emails, SMS, screenshots
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Send a Legal Notice – Give the opposite party 15–30 days to respond
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No Response? File the Complaint – Move to Consumer Forum with all documents
Required Documents
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Complaint copy (3 sets minimum)
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Proof of identity (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, Passport)
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Purchase invoices, contracts, warranty papers
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Copy of legal notice sent to the opposite party
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Demand Draft (DD) for the prescribed fee
How to File a Case – Step by Step
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Choose the Right Forum – Based on case value (District, State, or National level)
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Draft the Complaint – Clearly mention facts, grievance, and relief sought
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Pay the Fee – Fees vary from ₹200 to ₹7,500 depending on claim value
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File the Case – Either physically at the Commission office or online at E-Daakhil Portal
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Hearing Process – Notice will be sent to the opposite party, both sides will be heard, and then judgment will be delivered
Draft Complaint Sample
Before the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Hyderabad
Complaint No. ___ / 2025
In the matter of:
Mr. your name
Address: … Complainant
Versus
XYZ Electronics Pvt. Ltd.,
Address: … Opposite Party
Complaint under Section 35 of Consumer Protection Act, 2019
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The complainant purchased a refrigerator (Model XYZ123) worth ₹45,000 on 01.05.2025.
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Within one month, the product stopped working.
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Despite repeated requests, the opposite party failed to provide service.
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A legal notice was issued on 01.07.2025 but no response was received.
Reliefs Sought:
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Replacement of refrigerator or refund of ₹45,000
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Compensation of ₹25,000 for mental harassment
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Litigation costs of ₹5,000
Place: Hyderabad
Date: 28.09.2025
(Signature of Complainant)
Fee Structure
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Up to ₹5 lakhs: ₹200
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₹5–20 lakhs: ₹500
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₹20–50 lakhs: ₹2,000
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₹50 lakhs–1 crore: ₹5,000
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₹1 crore–2 crores: ₹7,500
Benefits of Consumer Forum
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Quick redressal (cases usually resolved within 3–6 months)
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Lawyer not mandatory (you can appear yourself)
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Minimal fees and easy process
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Online filing through E-Daakhil Portal
The Consumer Forum is a true weapon for common citizens. While businesses and service providers often exploit customers, the law ensures justice – if only people use it.
Remember: “Customer is King” only when the customer fights for his rights.
So next time you face injustice – don’t stay silent. Use the Consumer Forum and claim what is rightfully yours.
