IndiaA company is using unfair trade practices. Where can I file a complaint?
You can file a complaint against unfair trade practices with the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, State Commission, or National Commission under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 — depending on the value of your claim.
What the Law Says
The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 defines and prohibits unfair trade practices and provides a three-tier redressal mechanism for consumers to file complaints.
Unfair trade practice is defined under Section 2(47) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 as 'a trade practice which, for the purpose of promoting the sale, use or supply of any goods or for the provision of any service, adopts any unfair method or unfair or deceptive practice.'
Section 36 empowers the Central Authority (under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs) to investigate and take action against unfair trade practices, including issuing directions, imposing penalties, or ordering refunds.
However, individual consumers must file complaints before the appropriate Consumer Commission — not the Central Authority — unless seeking broad enforcement or class relief.
The jurisdiction of each commission depends on the value of the claim: District Commission handles claims up to ₹1 crore; State Commission handles claims above ₹1 crore and up to ₹10 crores; National Commission handles claims exceeding ₹10 crores.
Statutory Textunfair trade practice means a trade practice which, for the purpose of promoting the sale, use or supply of any goods or for the provision of any service, adopts any unfair method or unfair or deceptive practice
— Consumer Protection Act, 2019, s. 2(47) — Definition of unfair trade practice
Statutory TextThe Central Authority may, suo motu or on a complaint, investigate into any violation of the provisions of this Act...
— Consumer Protection Act, 2019, s. 36(1) — Powers of Central Authority
What to Do
Gather evidence (invoices, ads, correspondence, screenshots) showing the unfair practice (e.g., false promises, misleading pricing, hidden charges).
Draft a complaint clearly stating facts, relief sought (refund, compensation, discontinuation), and jurisdiction basis.
File the complaint online via https://consumerhelpline.gov.in or physically at the appropriate Consumer Commission within 2 years of the cause of action.
Pay the nominal fee (₹0–₹500, depending on claim value) and serve a copy to the company.
Attend hearings and follow up — commissions aim to dispose of cases within 90 days of admission.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.