Mumbai needs stronger consumer redressal system

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Thousands of Mumbaikars are waiting longer than ever for justice as staff shortages cripple consumer courts, despite presidents being in place between 2021 and 2025, according to the latest Consumer Justice Report, released on Wednesday (March 18), our report said.

Not a single year saw full member strength across the four Mumbai District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions (DCDRCs). By 2025, three operated with just one member, while Mumbai Suburban Additional had both seats vacant for three straight years (2023-2025).

Mumbai deserves a much stronger consumer redressal system. Posts must be filled with speed and will. There are cases pending beyond three years despite a six-month mandate; the system is failing to keep pace with the city's growing consumer demand.

On the one hand, people are told to pursue justice and complain when it comes to the system or infrastructure, on the other hand, they are made to wait years for something that can be resolved in a few months. How can one hope that people will pursue their consumer rights when they witness a disheartening and enervating delay? Business houses have legal teams and may be able to ride out the delay. Not individuals who approach consumer court.

There are a rising number of consumer cases, as we see an increase in online shopping. Staff shortfalls are unacceptable here as this affects justice delivery. As the financial capital of India, Mumbai's ranking of 11 out of 19 in consumer justice delivery is abysmal.

If the customer is truly king, make this more than a catchy, feel-good phrase with an effective and quick system.