The Consumer Protection Awareness Program was held at Phek on June 14.
Guest speaker Mezivolu T Therieh, District & Sessions Judge, spoke on the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, which replaced the earlier Consumer Protection Act, 1986. Therieh, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Phek District Legal Services Authority, emphasized that the law is enacted to protect the interests of consumers and facilitate the settlement of disputes. She noted that the 2019 Act includes provisions for digital commerce, strict penalties for misleading advertisements, mediation, and the establishment of the Central Consumer Protection Authority to prevent unfair trade practices.
She urged the Town Council to act as facilitators and mediators and suggested setting up redressal and mediation cells to resolve consumer disputes even before complaints are filed with the District Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission. She added that this initiative could be undertaken in partnership with civil society bodies.
However, she cautioned that while doing so, it is important to stay within the powers granted and to follow proper guidelines.
Therieh also highlighted a key feature of the 2019 Act — that a consumer can file a complaint from their place of residence, even if the product was purchased online.
Delivering the keynote address, Shiekhozo Rhakho, Assistant Controller of Legal Metrology & Consumer Protection, Phek, encouraged community leaders to create awareness about quality products and services.
Thejakhrienuo Nisa, ADC Phek and Executive Officer of Phek Town Council, in her brief address, stated that consumers are entitled to avail themselves of quality products and services.
An interactive session was led by Sekhotso Rokha, panel lawyer of the PDLSA.
Earlier, Vekuta Khamo, Vice President of PTCSU, chaired the programme, while the welcome address was delivered by Vezovo Rhakho, President of PTCSU.
The program was attended by members of the Phek District Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Colony Ward Chairmen, Phek Town Youth Society, Phek Town Chakhesang Students’ Union, Ward Youth Presidents, and GBs.
The event was organized by the Department of Legal Metrology and Consumer Protection and the Phek District Legal Services Authority, in collaboration with the Phek Town Chakhesang Students’ Union.