The State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (SCDRC) is the second tier in India’s three-tier consumer dispute redressal system. It has jurisdiction over original consumer complaints where the claim value is between ₹50 Lakhs and ₹2 Crores, and also hears first appeals from orders passed by District Commissions. This article provides a step-by-step guide to filing a complaint before the State Commission.
Jurisdiction of State Commission
- Original Jurisdiction: Consumer complaints where the value of goods or services and the compensation claimed exceeds ₹50 Lakhs but does not exceed ₹2 Crores.
- Appellate Jurisdiction: First appeals against orders passed by any District Commission within the state.
- Supervisory Jurisdiction: Supervision over the functioning of District Commissions within the state.
Prerequisites Before Filing
Before filing a complaint before the State Commission, ensure you have:
- Sent a legal notice to the opposite party and kept proof of delivery
- Gathered all documentary evidence supporting your complaint
- Calculated the correct claim value to confirm State Commission jurisdiction
- Verified that the complaint is within the two-year limitation period
Documents Required
- Consumer complaint petition in the prescribed format
- Index of documents (list of all documents being filed)
- All supporting documents exhibited with proper numbering
- Affidavit in support of the complaint
- Proof of sending legal notice
- Court fee in the prescribed amount
- Vakalatnama if filing through an advocate
Step-by-Step Filing Process
- Draft the complaint petition clearly covering all facts, cause of action, and specific reliefs sought.
- Prepare the complete set of documents with proper exhibit numbers.
- Complete the e-filing process on the e-Jagriti portal under the SCDRC section.
- Pay the applicable court fee online.
- Submit physical copies to the SCDRC registry along with the acknowledgement of e-filing.
- Obtain the diary number and wait for notice to be issued to the opposite party.
After Filing – What to Expect
After the complaint is admitted, the Commission issues notice to the opposite party. The opposite party has 30 days to file their reply. After the reply is received, both parties file their evidence by way of affidavit, followed by written arguments, and finally oral hearing. The Commission then passes its order, which may be challenged by way of appeal before the NCDRC.
Disclaimer: This article is for general legal awareness and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified advocate for specific legal matters. e-jagriti.com/ is not affiliated with the official government portal e-jagriti.gov.in.