Legal Metrology department empowers consumers in Wokha

Officials addressing the awareness programme on consumer rights held at the VDB Hall in Wokha on June 9.

A one-day awareness programme on consumer rights was held at the VDB Hall in Wokha on June 9. Organised by the Department of Legal Metrology & Consumer Protection, Nagaland, the initiative aimed to educate citizens on their rights as consumers amidst growing trade risks and scams in today’s fast-evolving market landscape.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Wokha, Renbomo Ezung, commended the department’s efforts in promoting consumer protection. He highlighted the increasing cases of consumer rights violations, including manipulation of expiry dates, overcharging above Maximum Retail Price (MRP), and lack of proper price tagging. He urged citizens to demand receipts during purchases, not only as proof but also as a safeguard for returns and exchanges.

Surenthung Enny, member of the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum, served as the resource person for the programme. In his address, he stressed the importance of inspecting products thoroughly before purchase and encouraged consumers to report unethical practices to the concerned departments or NGOs. He further explained that consumer rights extend beyond commercial transactions to include areas such as government welfare schemes and electricity billing.

Surenthung noted that although awareness is growing in Wokha, many consumers remain hesitant to lodge formal complaints. He called upon local leaders to take an active role in promoting consumer rights and awareness. Highlighting illegal practices such as altering MRP tags on motor vehicles, he also criticized misleading shop notices like “no return, no exchange,” explaining that under Section 14 of the Consumer Protection Act, consumers are entitled to returns and refunds.

Delivering the keynote on behalf of the organising department, T Aimong, Assistant Controller of Legal Metrology & Consumer Protection, Wokha, underlined the significance of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 as a cornerstone of fair trade practices. He pointed out that many consumers fall prey to unethical dealings simply due to lack of awareness and stressed the dual role of citizens—not only as rights holders but also as responsible participants in ensuring a fair marketplace.

The programme was attended by participants from various sectors, including students, community leaders, and members of civil society. An interactive session marked the conclusion of the event, offering attendees a platform to clarify doubts and share their own experiences, further emphasizing the need for proactive and informed consumer behaviour.

The department expressed hope that with continued efforts, Wokha will evolve into a fully informed and empowered district when it comes to consumer rights and protections.

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