JAMMU: An expert lecture and interactive session on Consumer Rights Day was organized by The Law School, University of Jammu. Shri Pawan Dev Kotwal, President of the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Jammu, and Former Principal District & Sessions Judge, addressed the law students. He discussed the theoretical legislative frameworks concerning the protection of consumer rights and their practical implementation in real-world scenarios.
Shri Kotwal emphasized the transformative changes introduced by the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, marking a new era in consumer protection laws. He explained how the Act has been updated to align with evolving times, focusing particularly on the inclusion of e-commerce businesses and the regulation of online transactions between consumers and sellers/service providers. Other significant changes covered by the Act include revisions to territorial jurisdiction, the introduction of e-filing of complaints, updates in pecuniary jurisdiction, the concept of product liability, and the imposition of strict penalties for false and misleading advertisements.
He also underscored the importance of ethical conduct and vigilance in preventing consumer frauds, urging students to become proactive advocates for consumer rights and social justice. Dr. Seema Rohmetra, Director of The Law School, University of Jammu, stated that the event was organized not only to disseminate knowledge about consumer rights but also to inspire a passionate commitment to social justice and ethical advocacy for consumer protection. The program was attended by 70 students and coordinated by Dr. Nitan Sharma, with the vote of thanks delivered by Sadaf Malik.
