A consumer awareness programme was organised at Rüzhükhrie Government Higher Secondary School, Kohima, on May 14. (DIPR Photo)
KOHIMA, MAY 14 (MExN): A consumer awareness programme themed “Consumers! Know Your Rights” was organised at Rüzhükhrie Government Higher Secondary School (RGHSS), Kohima, on May 14 by the Department of Legal Metrology & Consumer Protection (LMCP) in collaboration with the Kohima District Legal Services Authority (KDLSA) and the RGHSS NSS Unit.
Advocate and KDLSA Retainer Lawyer, Sunjib Rana, who served as the resource person, delivered an insightful talk on consumer rights and responsibilities, emphasising that every individual is a consumer and must be informed about their rights under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
Using real-life examples of misleading advertisements, Rana urged students to remain vigilant and not underestimate the power of a single consumer complaint. He elaborated on the three-tier grievance redressal structure under the Act: the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (up to Rs 50 lakh), the State Commission (Rs 50 lakh to Rs 2 crore), and the National Commission (above Rs 2 crore or appeals against State Commission rulings).
He also cautioned students about online shopping and advised them to retain receipts and maintain unboxing videos for complaint purposes.
Citing a case where a defective phone was successfully claimed using such documentation, he stressed the importance of consumer evidence.
Rana further addressed medical negligence, noting that both civil and criminal action could be initiated under the Consumer Protection Act in cases of gross negligence by hospitals or medical practitioners.
In his keynote address, Assistant Controller of LMCP, Shiekhozo, underlined the significance of legal metrology in everyday life. He stated that every transaction—from buying groceries to using services—relies on accurate measurement, and hence consumers should always verify weights, prices, and expiry dates.
“You have the right to know, and the seller has the duty to inform,” he said, encouraging students to become informed and responsible consumers.
The event was chaired by B. Orenvungo Yanthan, Program Officer of the NSS Unit, while the welcome address was delivered by RGHSS Vice Principal, Sedengunuo Mary Solo.
