How to file a consumer complaint

A faulty product, a refund not given, a service not delivered: complain to the company, then the helpline 1915, then the consumer commission.

हिंदी में पढ़ें

Checked on 11 November 2026. Fees, forms and steps change. Confirm on the official website before you pay. This is not a government website, and we do not process any application.

What you need

The bill, invoice or order number
Proof of payment
Photos or videos of the defect
Copies of your messages and emails to the seller, with dates
The seller's or company's name and address

Steps

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Complain to the seller or company in writing first: by email, on the app or by letter. State the problem and what you want (repair, replacement or refund). Keep the complaint number.
If there is no fair reply in a reasonable time, contact the National Consumer Helpline. Call 1915, or register the complaint on consumerhelpline.gov.in. It is free.
The helpline sends your complaint to the company and tries to settle it. You get a docket number to track it.
If it is still not settled, you can file a case before the Consumer Commission. Cases are filed online on the e-Jagriti portal, e-jagriti.gov.in.
Register on the portal, choose your state and district, and file a new complaint. Write the facts in order, state the relief you claim, and upload your documents.
Pay the fee, if any, and submit. Note the case number and attend the hearings, in person or online as the commission directs.

Fee

The helpline is free. In a consumer commission the fee depends on the value of the goods or services; under the rules in force when we checked, there is no fee where that value is up to ₹5 lakh.

Good to know

A complaint must normally be filed within two years of the problem arising.
A District Commission hears cases where the value of the goods or services paid for is up to ₹50 lakh. Larger cases go to the State or National Commission.
You can argue your own case. A lawyer is not compulsory.
Ask for a clear, reasonable relief: the refund, the repair, and a fair amount for your trouble and costs.
For banks, insurance, telecom and electricity there are also separate ombudsmen or grievance forums, which are often quicker. The helpline can tell you which one applies.

Official website

National Consumer Helpline

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