Tech-Driven Triumph: NRIs Use Digital Platforms To Secure Consumer Rights

In an inspiring example of digital justice overcoming geographical barriers, non-resident Indians (NRIs) are increasingly leveraging India’s e-Jagriti digital platform to resolve consumer disputes from overseas. A notable case is that of a woman residing in Shanghai who is remotely fighting a property-related consumer complaint in India, marking a breakthrough in cross-border consumer empowerment.

 

Key Highlights Of The Digital Consumer Justice Initiative

The e-Jagriti platform enables NRIs to file, track, and participate in hearings for consumer disputes entirely online without needing legal representation or physical presence in India.

 

Currently, 56 NRIs from various global locations, including the Shanghai-based woman, are actively resolving their consumer grievances relating to services and properties in India.

 

The platform offers hearings through video conferencing, facilitating swift resolution within the mandated 3 to 5 months, enhancing access, affordability, and speed of justice.

 

Case Spotlight: Shanghai Woman’s Property Dispute

The woman purchased an apartment in India for her parents but encountered issues requiring legal redress. She expressed confidence in managing the case independently via the platform from Shanghai.

 

Consumer Affairs Ministry Secretary Nidhi Khare highlighted this instance as a testament to how technology is bridging distances and simplifying consumer justice, even for complex property cases.

 

Technology Empowering Consumer Rights

E-Jagriti integrates multiple consumer dispute redressal commissions at district, state, and national levels, offering features like online fee payment, case monitoring, and AI-powered search for past cases.

 

The platform also has a litigation wing to address cases requiring compensation or punitive action beyond simple complaint resolution.

 

Looking Ahead

This initiative represents a step towards globalising consumer protection, enabling NRIs and citizens abroad to seek justice effectively and transparently.

 

The government continues to deploy advanced technologies to facilitate governance, ensuring consumer rights are upheld irrespective of location.

 

Source: Economic Times, PTI, The Week