Additional benches will help expedite justice delivery, says Minister

Karnataka State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission opens new bench in Belagavi for faster resolution of consumer disputes.

Additional benches of the Karnataka State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (KSCDRC) will help expedite justice delivery, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs K.H. Muniyappa said in Belagavi on Wednesday.

He was speaking at the inauguration of the permanent circuit bench of the KSCDRC at K.H. Patil Bhavan, Auto Nagar, here.

“Establishment of such a bench in Belagavi is a part of our commitment towards strengthening consumer protection. It will help swifter customer dispute resolution and justice to consumers. It will also work as a deterrent against common malpractices like overpricing, service deficiencies, product quality, misleading advertisements or unfair trade practices,” the Minister said.

The new bench, established under the Consumer Protection Act, will provide citizens with easier access to justice and faster resolution of consumer disputes. The commission will hear cases related to defective goods, deficient services, and unfair trade practices, among others, Mr. Muniyappa said.

“People of North Karnataka were forced to travel to Bengaluru seeking redressal of their grievances. This will save them time, money and other resources,” he said.

“It will benefit not only Belagavi but also other districts in the region,” he added.

Ministers Satish Jarkiholi and H.K. Patil along with MLC Hanamantha Nirani graced the occasion. Chairman Ravi Shankar and members of the Karnataka State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission were present.