To make the Consumer Protection Act more dynamic to take on the emerging challenges of a liberated economy and E-Business,a working group was set up in Jan04. The Department of Consumer Affairs is now reported to have framed the following: 1)E-Commerce- a)Service Providers will be bound to refund buyers, who did not have the opportunity to inspect goods prior to purchase, within 30days if goods and services are found defective. Overseas Sites/Telemarketing Agencies must have an office/agent in India. b)Buyer can file Complaint against any faraway Company in the Consumer Forums in area in which he/she resides. No need for any approvals/permissions and complaints maybe made by E-mail c)Court Fees maybe paid online. 2)Other Services- a) Changes to include Shares,Real Estate Services, Municipal,Health, medical Services EVEN IF FREE. b)Refusal to issue cash memo/bill is unfair Trade Practice offence 3)Privacy- Consumers privacy protected. Disclosure of personal information given in confidence is construed as "Deficiency of Service!" 4)More Teeth to existing provisions cutting down on redressal periods with heavier fines and putting Consumer and Seller on equal footing. It is also reported to be coming up for Cabinet approval next month.It is hoped that vested interests will not be able to dilute these proposed amendments by the time they come up for passing in the winter session of Parliament.
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