Consumer rights

Like other cities, towns and villages, consumerism has alarmingly increased in the federal capital, but consumers’ level of awareness about their rights is extremely painful even in the capital what to speak of other cities, towns and villages across the country. There are no organised efforts by any individual, civil society or even governmental organisations to help protect consumers from policies and practices that infringe consumer rights to fair business practices.

We have consumer protections laws and consumer protection courts but much still needs to be done to check and regulate the excesses of businesses and individuals against consumers. A few television channels are doing their best to promote and advance consumer welfare in the country. However, the federal and provincial governments must establish specific agencies and recruit restless personnel to monitor, identify and prosecute fraudulent people and service providers who play havoc with consumer rights in the country. Above all, provide proper infrastructure and adequate well-trained and ethical supporting staff to the consumer protection courts to make a difference by administering expeditious and easy relief to the consumers.

Hashim Abro

Islamabad