Format of Consumer Complaint – Draft and Proforma

Introduction

A well-drafted consumer complaint is the foundation of a successful case before the Consumer Commission. This article provides the general format and proforma for drafting a consumer complaint under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.

General Header Format

BEFORE THE [DISTRICT / STATE / NATIONAL] CONSUMER DISPUTES REDRESSAL COMMISSION
[Name of District / State / New Delhi]

CONSUMER COMPLAINT NO. _______ OF 20___

[Full Name of Complainant]
S/o D/o W/o _______________
R/o [Full Address]                       ... COMPLAINANT

VERSUS

[Full Name of Opposite Party / Company Name]
[Registered Office / Service Address]    ... OPPOSITE PARTY

Main Complaint Body

The complainant most respectfully submits as under:

1. That the Opposite Party is engaged in the business of [describe — e.g., selling electronic goods / providing telecom services / construction / insurance].
2. That on [Date], the Complainant purchased [describe goods / services] from the Opposite Party for a sum of Rs. _______/-.
3. That the goods/services were found to be defective/deficient in the following manner: [Briefly describe the specific defect or deficiency].
4. That the Complainant brought the defect to the notice of the Opposite Party on [date] through [mode of communication]. The Opposite Party failed to resolve the matter despite repeated requests.
5. That the Complainant is a Consumer within the meaning of Section 2(7) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, having purchased the goods/services for personal use.
6. That this Hon’ble Commission has jurisdiction to entertain this complaint under Section 35/47/58 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
7. That the present complaint is within the period of limitation.

Relief Sought

It is therefore most respectfully prayed that this Hon’ble Commission may be pleased to:

1. Direct the Opposite Party to [refund the amount of Rs. _______/- / replace the defective product / provide the promised service];
2. Award compensation of Rs. _______/- for mental harassment and inconvenience;
3. Award litigation costs of Rs. _______/- in favour of the Complainant;
4. Pass any other order(s) as this Hon’ble Commission may deem fit.

Tips for Drafting an Effective Complaint

• Be factual and specific — mention exact dates, amounts, and events
• Match the relief to the facts — every relief claimed must flow from the cause of action
• Avoid emotional language — stick to facts and law
• Number each paragraph
• Attach all supporting documents as Annexures / Exhibits (mark them as Annexure A, B, C, etc.)

Useful PDF Resources

• NCDRC Complaint Form Proforma PDF
• Consumer Protection Act 2019 PDF
• NCDRC Rules 2020 PDF