Simplified Unit - 4
Simplified Unit - 4
Certainly! Below are some potential exam questions and answers based on the topics you
provided regarding Consumerism, Historical Development, Philosophical Background,
Aims and Objectives, and the Protection of Consumers under Different Statutes:
Answer: Consumerism refers to the social and economic ideology that encourages the
acquisition and consumption of goods and services. It emphasizes the rights of consumers
to have access to safe products, truthful advertising, and reasonable prices.
Historical Development: Consumerism has evolved over time, starting with the industrial
revolution when mass production and advertising began to target consumers. Over time, as
production increased, so did consumer demand. The rise of consumer protection laws began
in the early 20th century due to increased consumer dissatisfaction with unsafe products,
poor service, and fraudulent business practices.
In the 1960s and 1970s, consumer rights gained prominence, with activists advocating for
the rights of consumers to be informed, protected, and treated fairly.
Consumerism also connects with broader ethical principles, such as human dignity, social
responsibility, and the protection of vulnerable populations from exploitation.
4. What are the legal provisions for consumer protection under the
Contract Act, 1972?
Answer: The Contract Act, 1872 (not 1972) regulates contracts in India, and while it is not
a consumer protection law per se, it provides a basis for certain consumer protection
remedies in cases of contract-related disputes. Some key provisions are:
Answer: The Sale of Goods Act, 1930 governs the sale of goods and provides certain
protections for consumers:
● Section 16: Implies that the goods sold must be fit for the intended purpose (fitness
for purpose).
● Section 14: Goods must be of satisfactory quality, and the seller must not
misrepresent the quality of goods.
● Implied Warranty and Conditions: The buyer is protected by implied conditions
regarding title, description, and quality of the goods.
● Section 55: If goods are defective, the consumer can claim damages for any loss
suffered due to the breach of the contract.
Answer: The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 regulates the manufacture, sale, and
distribution of drugs and cosmetics in India. Its significance to consumer protection includes:
● Section 16: Prohibits the sale of substandard drugs or cosmetics that are harmful to
health.
● Licensing and Regulation: Ensures that drugs and cosmetics meet safety and
quality standards before being marketed to consumers.
● Penalty Provisions: Provides for the prosecution of individuals who manufacture or
sell adulterated or misbranded drugs or cosmetics.
Answer: The Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954 aims to prevent the sale of
adulterated food items and protect consumers’ health. Key provisions include:
8. What role does the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 play in consumer
protection?
Answer: The Essential Commodities Act, 1955 empowers the government to regulate the
production, supply, and distribution of essential commodities. It aims to prevent hoarding,
black-marketing, and price manipulation, which could harm consumers. Provisions include:
Answer: The Competition Act, 2002 ensures fair competition in the market, which indirectly
protects consumers. Key provisions include:
10. What are the relevant provisions of the Weights and Measures Act in
consumer protection?
Answer: The Weights and Measures Act, 1976 regulates the use of weights and
measures in trade and commerce to ensure consumers are getting what they pay for. Some
key provisions include:
● Section 3: Mandates the use of standard weights and measures for transactions.
● Section 10: Provides for the inspection and testing of weights and measures to
ensure accuracy.
● Penalties: Sellers using inaccurate weights or measures face penalties, protecting
consumers from being cheated in transactions.
11. How does the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 provide remedies to
consumers?
Answer: The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 is a comprehensive law aimed at protecting
consumer rights and providing remedies. Some key provisions include: