In Brief
The Supreme Court clarified the jurisdiction of consumer forums over statutory authorities. The case overruled a prior decision (HUDA v. Sunita) which held that the Consumer Protection Act did not apply to statutory dues levied by developmental authorities. The Court held that while the Act does not cover all statutory impositions (like taxes), it does apply to fees charged for specific services where there is a quid pro quo relationship. Consumer forums may examine whether such fees involved any deficiency in service or breach of prescribed standards, though they cannot challenge the constitutional validity of fee-prescribing rules. The judgment emphasizes that the Consumer Protection Act is beneficial legislation requiring liberal interpretation."
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