How to File a Consumer Complaint Online in India – Step-by-Step Guide 2025

Have you bought a defective product? Received poor service? Been cheated by a seller? You have the right to complain and get justice!

India's Consumer Protection Act, 2019, protects you from unfair trade practices. The best part? You can now file complaints online from home.

Who Can File a Consumer Complaint?

Anyone who buys goods or services for personal use can file a complaint if:

• Product is defective or doesn't work as promised

• Service is poor or incomplete

• You were charged more than the printed price

• Seller used unfair trade practices

• You suffered loss due to negligent service

Where to File Your Complaint?

Depends on the claim amount:

• Up to ₹50 lakh – District Consumer Commission

• ₹50 lakh to ₹2 crore – State Consumer Commission

• Above ₹2 crore – National Consumer Commission

Step-by-Step Process to File Online:

Step 1: Visit the e-Daakhil portal at https://edaakhil.nic.in

Step 2: Register yourself with basic details (name, email, mobile number)

Step 3: Click on "File a Complaint" and select the appropriate commission

Step 4: Fill in the complaint form with:

• Your details (complainant)

• Seller/service provider details (opponent)

• Description of the problem

• Amount of compensation you're claiming

• Relief you want (refund, replacement, compensation)

Step 5: Upload supporting documents:

• Bill/invoice

• Product photos (if defective)

• Correspondence with seller

• Bank statements (if money was paid)

• Any other proof

Step 6: Pay the nominal court fee online (usually ₹100-₹5,000 depending on claim)

Step 7: Submit and save the acknowledgment receipt

Documents You Need:

✓ Purchase bill or invoice✓ Warranty/guarantee card✓ Photos of defective product✓ Communication with seller (emails, messages)✓ Proof of payment✓ Medical bills (if health was affected)

How Long Does It Take?

District Commission must decide within 3 months. In practice, it may take 6-12 months.

Can I Represent Myself?

Yes! You don't need a lawyer for consumer cases. The process is simple and consumer-friendly.

Real Example:

Rajesh from Delhi bought a refrigerator online for ₹25,000. It stopped working after 2 months. The company refused to repair or replace it. He filed a complaint online, attached the bill and complaint emails. Within 8 months, the commission ordered a full refund plus ₹5,000 compensation for mental harassment.

Important Tips:

• File complaint within 2 years of the problem

• Keep all bills and receipts safe

• Try to resolve with seller first (send written complaint)

• Be clear about what compensation you want

• Attend hearings (online/offline) when called

Your Rights as a Consumer:

You have the right to:

• Safety from dangerous products

• Information about quality and price

• Choose from variety of products

• Be heard and get complaints resolved

• Consumer education

• Compensation for loss

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

❌ Not keeping purchase bills❌ Delaying the complaint too long❌ Not giving correct opponent details❌ Asking for unrealistic compensation❌ Not attending hearings

Conclusion:

Consumer protection is your fundamental right. Don't let sellers cheat you. The online complaint system has made justice accessible to everyone. Follow these simple steps and protect your hard-earned money.

Have you faced a consumer problem? Share your experience in the comments below!