Awareness programme on consumer rights held in Wokha

Published on Jun 9, 2025

WOKHA — The Department of Legal Metrology & Consumer Protection on Monday organised an awareness programme on consumer rights at VDB Hall, Wokha, aiming to educate citizens on the importance of informed consumerism in an era of increasing trade risks and scams.
Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) and CEO, Wokha Town Council, Renbomo Ezung, commended the department for its initiative, highlighting common consumer rights violations such as manipulation of expiry dates, overpricing beyond the Maximum Retail Price (MRP), and inadequate price tagging.

Renbomo Ezung speaking during an awareness programme on consumer rights at VDB Hall, Wokha, on Monday. (EM Images)

He urged consumers to demand receipts as proof of purchase, stressing the need for active application of consumer rights rather than passive awareness.
Surenthung Enny, member of the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum, served as the expert speaker. He advised consumers to thoroughly inspect products before purchase and report fraudulent practices to the relevant authorities or consumer rights organizations. Enny emphasised that consumer rights extend beyond commercial transactions to government schemes and electricity billing, affirming that legal protections apply to both goods and services.

Despite increasing awareness of consumer rights in Wokha, Enny acknowledged persistent hesitation in filing complaints. He encouraged local leaders to champion awareness efforts and assured residents that scams originating from other districts could also be addressed locally.

He also warned against illegal practices, such as altering MRP markings on motor vehicles, and called for the removal of misleading shop signs stating “No Return, No Exchange,” citing Section 14 of the Consumer Protection Act, which safeguards consumer rights to returns and refunds.
T Aimong, Assistant Controller of Legal Metrology & Consumer Protection, Wokha, underscored the need for consumer awareness, noting that many citizens unknowingly fall victim to unethical trade practices. He described the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, as the cornerstone of ethical commerce, outlining both consumer rights and individual responsibilities in fostering fair trade practices.
The programme welcomed participants from diverse backgrounds, including students and community leaders, reinforcing the mission of spreading awareness across society. Aimong encouraged citizens to take active responsibility in exercising their consumer rights, expressing optimism that Wokha would one day be fully informed and empowered in consumer matters.
The event concluded with an interactive session where attendees engaged in discussions, clarified doubts, and shared experiences, strengthening the initiative’s message of proactive consumer engagement.