Mysuru: The Members of Mysore Grahakara Parishat (MGP) have expressed deep disappointment that both State and Central Government Departments are not showing sufficient interest in celebrating “World Consumer Rights Day.” The day highlights the significance of consumer awareness and empowerment.

The meeting held at MGP Office in city on Sunday discussed this year’s theme, “Every consumer’s safety and empowerment as the aim of World Consumer Rights Day,” voicing their dissatisfaction over lack of Government engagement.

MGP Founder-President Bhamy V. Shenoy highlighted the historical importance of the day and its connection to global consumer protection efforts. India introduced Consumer Protection Act in 1986, which aims to protect consumer rights. This law empowers individuals to seek legal redress for issues like fraud and deceit encountered while purchasing goods.

To promote awareness in Mysuru, a series of programmes, including seminars and exhibitions, will be held throughout the year. These initiatives will involve cooperation from various organisations, University authorities, School Education and Literacy Department, ZP, Deputy Commissioner’s Office, District Legal Services Authority etc.

Ritualistic meetings

In the past, ritualistic meetings at colleges & schools on consumer rights have yielded little impact. A more effective approach may involve students organising events under the guidance of committed teachers, he said.

 These could include essay competitions, moot courts on Consumer Redressal Commissions, debates on using the consumer movement to combat corruption, street plays, poster competitions, and motivating students to file consumer cases.

In public and private institutions, consumers often feel as though they’re receiving a “favour” when purchasing goods or services. Holding regular meetings to address consumer concerns and take corrective actions can reinforce idea that consumers are indeed ‘kings.’ However, such events often become mere rituals unless taken seriously by management, he noted.

Senior writer Prof. Kalachannegowda suggested that the University of Mysore’s NSS division collaborate with the Vice-Chancellor to discuss celebrating World Consumer Rights Day. Additionally, members proposed that the Women and Child Development Department also engage in discussions.

Other participants at the meeting included D.V. Dayananda Sagar, Renu Agarwal, Dr. K. Shankaregowda, M.S. Harish from Vidyavardhaka Educational Institutions, K.G. Shashidhar, P. Rakesh, Ravichandra Benkal, Shyamala, B. Vrishabendra, Yash Gowda, Bhanu Prashanth, Rajendra, Arun Kumar Shettar, S. Sumalata, R.A. Manjunath, Prof. S. Dwaraki, T.R. Ravindran, S.V. Shankar, Ravishankar, Venkatesh, V.S. Sethu Ram and Dr. G. Panduranga Murthy.