Introduction

The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 lays down strict penalties for violations that harm consumer rights. Sections 88 to 93 cover offences like disobeying authority directions, false advertisements, sale of adulterated or spurious goods, and vexatious searches. The Act prescribes fines and imprisonment, and the punishments increase with the seriousness of the offence. In cases causing death or grave injury, the law imposes severe penalties.

What If A Person Does Not Comply with Central Authority

If a person fails to follow the directions of the Central Authority, they face up to six months in jail or a fine of up to twenty lakh rupees. In serious cases, both punishments may apply. Courts can begin proceedings only on a complaint filed by the Central Authority or its authorized officer.

What Is The Punishment False or Misleading Advertisements

The Act punishes false and misleading advertisements strictly. For the first offence, imprisonment may extend to two years and the fine may go up to ten lakh rupees. For repeat offences, imprisonment may extend to five years and the fine may reach fifty lakh rupees. Endorsers may also face a ban on promoting products for one year, which can extend to three years in case of repeat violations.

What Is The Penalty For Adulterated Products

The sale of adulterated goods attracts different levels of punishment depending on the harm caused. If no injury results, the punishment may be up to six months in jail with a fine of one lakh rupees. If the product causes non-grievous injury, the offender may face one year in jail and a fine of up to three lakh rupees. For grievous hurt, the penalty rises to seven years and a fine of five lakh rupees. If the adulteration causes death, the punishment is a minimum of seven years, which may extend to life imprisonment, with a fine not less than ten lakh rupees. Such offences are cognizable and non-bailable when serious injury or death occurs.

What Is The Penalty For Selling Spurious Goods

The penalties for selling spurious goods follow the same structure as those for adulterated goods. The law focuses on the degree of harm to consumers while deciding punishment.
Courts can take cognizance of offences under Sections 88 and 89 only when the Central Authority or its authorized officer files a complaint. This ensures that only authorized bodies initiate action.
The law also punishes officers who misuse their powers. If an officer orders or conducts a search without reasonable cause, they may face up to one year in jail or a fine of ten thousand rupees, or both.

Takeaways

The Act also allows courts to suspend or cancel business licences for repeat offenders. It applies strict penalties to both individuals and businesses to ensure consumer protection. The graded structure ensures that punishments match the seriousness of the offence.
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Conclusion

The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 strengthens consumer rights with tough penalties for violations. By imposing fines, imprisonment, and restrictions on businesses, the law creates a strong deterrent against false advertising, unsafe goods, and abuse of authority. It ensures consumer safety and holds wrongdoers accountable.