What is the limitation period for filing a consumer complaint?

Question

The defect in my purchased goods happened over a year ago. Am I still within time to file a consumer complaint? I would like to understand which provision governs this, what it entitles me to, and how long I have before the remedy lapses. I also want to know whether I need a lawyer for this or can do it myself.

MyVakeel Legal Desk · Accepted Answer

In India, the answer to "What is the limitation period for filing a consumer complaint?" turns on Consumer Protection Act 2019, Section 69 and Limitation Act 1963, Section 5. The points below set out the position and then what to do about it, in the order it should be done.

Section 69(1) requires a consumer complaint to be filed within two years from the date on which the cause of action arose.

The 'cause of action' is usually the date of discovery of the defect or deficiency, not necessarily the date of purchase, especially for latent defects.

Section 69(2) allows the Commission to condone delay beyond two years if sufficient cause is shown through a separate application supported by an affidavit.

Continuing wrongs, such as a builder's ongoing failure to deliver possession, may give rise to a fresh cause of action each time, extending the effective limitation.

Filing without an application for condonation of delay, where the complaint is time-barred on its face, risks outright dismissal on this technical ground.

What this means for you: 1) Identify the exact date when you discovered the defect or deficiency, not just the purchase date; 2) If more than two years have passed, prepare a condonation of delay application with reasons and supporting affidavit; 3) File the complaint along with the delay application simultaneously; 4) Gather documents proving when the cause of action actually arose or continued.

Where the facts are disputed, what usually decides a limitation period consumer complaint matter is the paper trail — dated complaints, acknowledgments and written replies under Consumer Protection Act 2019, Section 69. You can post the details on the MyVakeel forum for a practising advocate to review, or book a paid consultation with a Bar Council verified lawyer in consumer law.