CCPA Discusses Warranty Period Changes with LG, Panasonic, and Other Companies
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) held a meeting with electronic appliance manufacturing companies to discuss the issue of starting the warranty period from the date of installation instead of the purchase date. The meeting was chaired by Nidhi Khare, Chief Commissioner of CCPA, and attended by representatives from major companies including Reliance Retail, LG, Panasonic, Haier, Croma, and Bosch.
Key Points Discussed
Chief Commissioner Khare highlighted three key points:
- Consumers should be clearly informed about the starting point of the warranty period.
- Companies should follow global best practices in India.
- Consumer grievances related to the warranty period must be addressed proactively and promptly.
Consumer rights, as defined under Section 2(9) of the Act, include the right to be informed about the quality, quantity, potency, purity, standard, and price of goods, products, or services to protect against unfair trade practices.
Types of Electronic Appliances
During the meeting, it was discussed that electronic appliances generally fall into two categories:
- ‘Plug-n-play’ products like iron presses and microwaves, which do not require installation.
- Products requiring installation, such as air conditioners and refrigerators.
The feasibility of starting the warranty period from the date of installation was discussed, along with measures to prevent abuse of this mechanism and ensure consumer interests are safeguarded. There was a general consensus to address the issue proactively, and companies were requested to submit their views within 15 days.
