How has a three-tier quasi-judicial machinery been set up for redressal of consumer disputes? Explain.

A major step was taken in 1986 by the Indian government was an enactment of the Consumer Protection Act 1986, popularly known as COPRA. Under COPRA, a three-tier quasi-judicial machinery at the district, state and national levels has been set up for redressal of consumer disputes. The district level court deals with the cases involving claims up to Rs 20 lakhs, the state level courts between Rs 20 lakhs and Rs 1 crore and the national level court deals with cases involving claims exceeding Rs 1crore.

The consumer movement in India has led to the formation of various organisations locally known as consumer forums or consumer protection councils. They guide consumers on how to file cases in the consumer court. On many occasions, they also represent individual consumers in the consumer courts. These voluntary organisations also receive financial support from the government for creating awareness among the people.