How to File a Consumer Complaint in India
E-Daakhil filing, District/State/National Commission jurisdiction by claim value, no lawyer needed, and the reliefs you can claim.
Who is a consumer?
Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, anyone who buys goods or hires services for consideration is a consumer — including online shoppers. The Act covers defective goods, deficient services, unfair trade practices, and misleading advertisements.
Where to file — jurisdiction by claim value
The three-tier system depends on the value of goods/services paid:
- District Commission: claims up to ₹50 lakh.
- State Commission: claims above ₹50 lakh and up to ₹2 crore.
- National Commission (NCDRC): claims above ₹2 crore.
- You can file where you reside or work, not just where the seller is located.
Filing online through E-Daakhil
The government's E-Daakhil portal (edaakhil.nic.in) lets you file complaints online from anywhere in India. You register, fill in the complaint, upload documents (bills, warranty cards, correspondence), and pay a nominal fee online. You do not need a lawyer — you can argue your own case.
What you can claim
Commissions can order:
- Refund of the price paid.
- Replacement or repair of defective goods.
- Compensation for mental agony, harassment, and litigation costs.
- Removal of defects and discontinuation of unfair practices.
Limitation period
A complaint must be filed within two years of the cause of action. Send a written legal notice to the seller or service provider first — many disputes settle at that stage, and the notice strengthens your record if you do file.
Want the exact statute text? Browse the related Acts in our Bare Acts library.
Disclaimer: This guide is general information about Indian law, not legal advice. Statutes are amended and facts differ — consult a licensed advocate before acting on it.