Need to protect consumers amid consolidation of internet-economy in hands of a few: Govt

Expressing concern over growing consolidation of internet-based economic activities among a few companies in many sectors, the government on Monday said there is a need to protect the consumers’ interest and prevent them from being exploited.

The government also said consumer complaints related to online transactions are rising and pointed out that of the total complaints registered last month on the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), 38-40 per cent pertained to e-commerce trade.

Addressing a national workshop for effective and speedy consumer disputes redressal, Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Piyush Goyal said that consumer commissions are the only hope for consumers who are need of justice.