What is the pecuniary jurisdiction under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019?

As currently notified, the District Commission hears complaints where the value of goods or services paid as consideration does not exceed Rs. 50 lakh; the State Commission from Rs. 50 lakh up to Rs. 2 crore; and the National Commission above Rs. 2 crore.

Consumer Complaint Format (Consumer Protection Act, 2019)

Q: Where do I file a consumer complaint?

A consumer complaint is filed before the Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (consumer court) — District, State, or National — depending on the value of the goods or services and the compensation claimed. Complaints can also be filed online through the e-Daakhil portal.

Q: What is the time limit to file a consumer complaint?

A complaint must generally be filed within 2 years from the date on which the cause of action arose. A delay may be condoned by the Commission if sufficient cause is shown and recorded.

Q: What can a consumer complain about?

A consumer can complain about a defect in goods, a deficiency in service, an unfair or restrictive trade practice, overcharging, or hazardous goods or services, and can seek relief such as replacement, refund, removal of the defect, and compensation.

A consumer complaint must go to the right Commission for its value and be filed within limitation — get either wrong and it can be returned. Below is where to file, the jurisdiction and time limit, and a ready template you can adapt or file on e-Daakhil.

Where to file

A complaint is filed before the Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (consumer court) — District, State, or National — depending on value, or online through the e-Daakhil portal.

Pecuniary jurisdiction & limitation

District Commission: value of consideration up to Rs. 50 lakh.
State Commission: above Rs. 50 lakh up to Rs. 2 crore.
National Commission: above Rs. 2 crore.
Limitation: generally 2 years from the cause of action, condonable for sufficient cause.

What you can complain about

A defect in goods, a deficiency in service, an unfair or restrictive trade practice, overcharging, or hazardous goods/services — seeking relief such as replacement, refund, removal of the defect, and compensation.

Consumer complaint template

BEFORE THE DISTRICT CONSUMER DISPUTES REDRESSAL COMMISSION, ____________ Consumer Complaint No. ______ of 20____ ____________________ (Name, address) ... Complainant Versus ____________________ (Name, address of trader/service provider) ... Opposite Party COMPLAINT UNDER SECTION 35 OF THE CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT, 2019 The complainant respectfully submits: 1. That the complainant is a "consumer" who purchased/availed ____________ from the opposite party on __________ for a consideration of Rs. __________. 2. That ____________________ [the defect in goods / deficiency in service / unfair trade practice], as detailed below. 3. That despite requests, the opposite party has failed to redress the grievance. 4. That the cause of action arose on __________ within the jurisdiction of this Commission, and the value is within its pecuniary jurisdiction. RELIEF: The complainant prays for: (a) refund / replacement / removal of defect of Rs. __________; (b) compensation of Rs. __________ for deficiency and mental agony; (c) costs of the complaint; and (d) any other relief this Commission deems fit. VERIFICATION and supporting affidavit enclosed. Place: ____________ __________________________ Date: ____________ Complainant / Advocate

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Frequently asked questions

Where do I file a consumer complaint?

Before the District, State, or National Consumer Commission depending on value, or online via the e-Daakhil portal.

What is the pecuniary jurisdiction under the 2019 Act?

District up to Rs. 50 lakh; State above Rs. 50 lakh up to Rs. 2 crore; National above Rs. 2 crore (as currently notified).

What is the time limit to file a consumer complaint?

Generally 2 years from the cause of action, condonable for sufficient cause recorded by the Commission.

What can a consumer complain about?

Defect in goods, deficiency in service, unfair/restrictive trade practice, overcharging, or hazardous goods/services — seeking refund, replacement, removal of defect, and compensation.