Definition of Consumer, Goods & Services 📋
The most important question: Who can file a complaint under this Act?
Who is a CONSUMER? 👤
Section 2(1)(d): Any person who:
- Buys goods for consideration (paid money), OR
- Hires/avails services for consideration,
- For personal use (NOT for resale or commercial purpose).
Includes: Any user with approval of buyer (e.g., Your friend using your phone is also a consumer).
Who is NOT a Consumer? 🚫
- Wholesalers / Retailers: Bought for resale.
- Free goods: No payment made (e.g., Free sample).
- Commercial use: Factory bought raw materials.
Example 1: Raj buys a laptop for ₹50,000 for personal use. → Consumer. Example 2: Raj buys 100 laptops to sell in his shop. → NOT a Consumer (Commercial).
Definition of GOODS 📦
Section 2(1)(g): Every kind of movable property (excluding actionable claims and money).
Examples: TV, Car, Food, Medicines, Books. Not Goods: House (Immovable), Share Certificate (Actionable Claim).
Definition of SERVICES 🛠️
Section 2(1)(o): Service of any description made available to consumers.
Includes:
- Banking, Insurance, Medical, Legal, Education.
- Transportation, Entertainment, Telecom.
- Hospitality (Hotels, Restaurants).
Excludes:
- Free services.
- Services under contract of personal service (Employee-Employer).
If you got a service completely free, you are NOT a consumer under this Act. Exception: If service is free but you paid for related goods (e.g., Free home delivery with product), you ARE still a consumer.
Quiz Time! 🎯
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💡 Final Wisdom: "If you paid money and bought for your own use (not to sell), you are a Consumer. You are protected!" 🛡️
Next up: Consumer Disputes - What complaints can you file? ⚖️