Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, which one of the following is an example of deficiency rather than defect?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → A bank does not tell a customer about extra charges on his loan, and he suffers a loss.
Option (1) A new refrigerator does not cool because of a faulty compressor. — Incorrect. A fault in a refrigerator is a fault in goods or a product, so it is a defect.
Option (2) A bank does not tell a customer about extra charges on his loan, and he suffers a loss. — Correct. A bank gives a service. Withholding relevant information that causes loss to the consumer is part of deficiency.
Option (3) The sole of a new pair of shoes comes off within a week. — Incorrect. A sole that comes off is a shortcoming in the quality of goods, so it is a defect.
Option (4) The battery of a new mobile phone swells while it is being charged. — Incorrect. A battery that swells is a fault in a product, so it is a defect.
A defect is a fault in goods or a product. A deficiency is a fault in a service.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Terms & Definitions … 6. Defect: Any fault, imperfection, shortcoming or inadequacy in quality, nature and manner of performance in relation to goods or a product. |