Question

A patient suffering from a high fever was hospitalised for a few days. During the treatment, he was given an injection whichcaused a permanent nerve damage resulting in paralysis. The cost of treatment was ₹2,00,000, which was disputed by the patient's family.

The consumer dispute redressal authority can be approached by the patient's family. Explain any three rights to the consumers.

Answer 1

The patient's relatives can seek the district commission. According to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, complaints can be made with the District Commission within the complainant's local bounds. The District Commission has authority over complaints involving products and services worth up to ₹1 crore.

Rights of the consumers:

1. Right to safety: The right to safety protects consumers from products and services that endanger their life, health, or property. For example, low-quality raw materials are used in equipment such as electric presses and pressure cookers, as well as low-quality food products such as bread, milk, jam, and butter. Consumers have the right to be protected against losses caused by such products.
2. Right to be informed: Consumers have the right to complete product information, including ingredients, date of manufacturing, price, amount, and directions for use. A manufacturer is expected to offer all such information in a proper manner so that the consumer is not duped.
3. Right to choose: Consumers have the freedom to choose from a variety of goods and services in the market. In other words, no seller can exert undue influence over his decision. Sellers who interfere with the buyer's right to select will face legal consequences.