Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Who Can File a Consumer Complaint?
- When Should You File a Complaint?
- Jurisdiction: Where to File Your Complaint
- How to File a Consumer Complaint in India (Step-by-Step)
- Online Consumer Complaints via E-Daakhil Portal
- Time Limit & Documentation
- Tips to Strengthen Your Consumer Case
- Recent Cases & Real Examples
- Conclusion
Introduction
Have you ever been overcharged, sold defective products, or misled by advertisements? If so, you have the right to file a consumer complaint in India. The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 empowers every Indian citizen. It enables them to seek compensation and justice for unfair trade practices. It also covers defective goods.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to file a consumer complaint in 2025. You can file it both online and offline. We will also explain the steps you can take to ensure a favorable outcome.
Who Can File a Consumer Complaint?
According to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, a consumer is anyone who buys goods or services for personal use. They do so not for resale or commercial purposes.
Eligible Complainants:
- Individuals (including minors through guardians)
- Registered consumer associations
- Government bodies or legal representatives
- Groups of consumers with the same interest
- Legal heirs of deceased consumers
When Should You File a Complaint?
You should file a complaint if you experience:
- Defective goods or faulty services
- Overcharging or deceptive pricing
- Unfair trade practices
- Misleading ads or fake endorsements
- Non-fulfilment of warranties
- Delivery delays without justification
Tip: Save all bills, emails, receipts, and chats—these are vital evidence.
Jurisdiction: Where to File Your Complaint
Under the Consumer Protection Act, complaints can be filed based on claim value:
| Forum Type | Claim Amount |
|---|---|
| District Commission | Up to ₹50 lakhs |
| State Commission | ₹50 lakhs – ₹2 crores |
| National Commission | Above ₹2 crores |
You can file the complaint in the place:
- Where you live
- Where the opposite party resides or works
- Where the cause of action arose
How to File a Consumer Complaint in India (Step-by-Step)
📍 Offline Method
- Draft your complaint (mention facts, product/service details, loss suffered).
- Attach supporting documents (bills, proof of delivery, photos, etc.).
- File it in the correct forum (District, State, or National).
- Pay nominal court fees depending on the claim amount.
- Attend hearings and provide evidence when required.
📍 Online Method via Consumer helpline Portal
You can now file complaints from home using the consumer helpline (DoFollow).
Online Consumer Complaints via Consumer helpline Portal
Steps:
- Visit Consumer helpline
- Sign up with your mobile number and email.
- Fill out your complaint form online.
- Upload scanned documents.
- Pay filing fees through net banking.
- Track the status of your case digitally.
Pro Tip: You can also get help via Consumer Helpline No: 1915
Time Limit & Documentation
- You must file a complaint within 2 years from the date of cause.
- Extension is possible with valid reasons.
Important Documents:
- Purchase invoice / Bill
- Warranty cards (if applicable)
- Email/SMS records
- Complaint letters (prior attempts to resolve)
- Proof of payment (UPI, card, cheque, etc.)
Tips to Strengthen Your Consumer Case
✔️ Keep calm and professional in all communications
✔️ Try resolving it with the seller before approaching forums
✔️ Mention relevant sections of the Consumer Protection Act
✔️ Cite case laws if possible (optional but helpful)
✔️ Use Legal Aid Services if you’re unable to afford a lawyer
Recent Cases & Real Examples
- Amazon delivered a fake phone – ₹50,000 compensation ordered by District Commission in Mumbai (2024).
- Ola driver misbehaved and overcharged – Delhi Commission awarded ₹25,000 in damages.
- Faulty fridge sold without return option – Whirlpool fined ₹1.2 lakhs by Chandigarh State Commission.
These cases show that consumers can and do win—if they follow the right legal process.
Conclusion
Knowing how to file a consumer complaint in India is essential. It’s your first step toward protecting yourself in an increasingly digital and often deceptive marketplace. The process is now simpler, faster, and more accessible than ever thanks to the E-Daakhil portal and updated laws.
Don’t stay silent if your rights as a consumer are violated. Document everything, follow the steps above, and use the law to your advantage.
Justice for consumers isn’t a luxury—it’s a legal right.
Also Read
- BNS Controversy: 3 Strong Reasons Delhi High Court Dismissed PIL
- The Preamble of the Indian Constitution: A Living Promise, not a Forgotten Preamble
