Ritu has read about her rights as a consumer and the reliefs available to her. When a shopkeeper charged her more than the Maximum Retail Price, she at once objected and got the extra money back.
Which way of consumer protection does Ritu’s case show?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Consumer awareness
Option (1) Self-regulation by business — Incorrect. Under self-regulation, a firm follows ethical practices on its own. The shopkeeper returned the money only because Ritu objected.
Option (2) Consumer awareness — Correct. A consumer who is well-informed about her rights and reliefs is in a position to raise her voice against unfair trade practices. Ritu knew her rights, objected to the overcharging and got her money back.
Option (3) Consumer organisations — Incorrect. Consumer organisations are bodies that educate and protect consumers and force firms to avoid malpractices. No such body took up her case.
Option (4) Government — Incorrect. Government protects consumers by enacting measures such as the Act, the helpline and the Commissions. None of these was used.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “3. Consumer Awareness: A consumer, who is well-informed about his rights and the reliefs available to him, would be in a position to raise his voice against any unfair trade practices or unscrupulous exploitation. In addition to this, an understanding of his responsibilities would also enable a consumer to safeguard his interests. In this regard, the Department of Consumer Affairs, GOI, has been undertaking Jago Grahak Jago campaign, for generating awareness among consumers.” |