Discloser of Information by E-Commerce Traders and Consumer Protection: A Critical Appraisal of Consumer Protection Laws in India

Abstract

     In e-commerce, information is vital. A true, reliable and authenticate information can build consumer trust which enables him to make a better choice. This research paper identifies that e-commerce has brought forward a new challenge in the form of inadequate discloser of information about: the identity of e-trader; goods or services, including its quality, quantity and fitness; total price of goods or service including all the charges; terms and conditions of transactions; fair, timely and affordable dispute resolution; procedure of filling a complaint; procedures, conditions, and time duration for cancellation of contract, return of goods or services and claim for repair, replacement, refund and damages; and so on. Further, the time, manner and the language of providing the above information is also crucial in e-commerce. The paper has made an honest attempt to critically analyse the recently enacted Consumer Protection Act, 2019 from the perspective of testing legal sufficiency to ensure adequate disclosure of information by e-commerce traders in their platforms for effective consumer protection in e-commerce.