'Clearly Inform Customers About Warranty Period': CCPA To Electronic Appliance Makers

On Saturday, a meeting was held between the CCPA (Central Consumer Protection Authority) and the electronic appliance manufacturing companies. It was done to discuss the issue regarding the warranty period of a device, after its purchase instead of the installation date.

According to the chief commissioner of CCPA Nidhi Khare, the consumers are to be informed clearly about the warranty period of their devices immediately after the purchase. They should have all the knowledge on the warranty while buying the product and the companies have to ensure this is followed.

Nidhi Khare said in a statement, “Consumer grievances relating to the warranty period must be addressed in a proactive and prompt manner.” As per reports, the meeting was attended by prominent electronic companies like LG, Panasonic, Haier, Croma, Bosch and others.

Furthermore, the CCPA stated, “Since the warranty period as per the policies set by manufacturers commences from the purchase date, and not the date of installation, there is a shortfall in the warranty period as consumers can only begin using the product after it has been installed on their premises.”

More reports state that the issue was discussed for two categories of electronic devices. The first is the “plug and play” products like iron press and microwave, which do not require an installation. The second category includes appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners, that need to be installed.

The meeting mentioned the right of a consumer on the product that they have purchased. According to those rights, as defined under Section 2(9) of the Act, a consumer has the right to be knowledgeable on the quality, quantity and price of a product, goods or services. It aims to provide the utmost protection to a consumer from unfair trade practices.

In the meeting, the feasibility of the installation date to be the commencement date for the warranty period was also discussed. Measures to prevent the exploitation of the process were also discussed. The electronic appliance makers have been asked to give their opinions in 15 days.