Cash memo vital to prevent fraud: District consumer panel

Baramulla, Dec 15: The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (DCDRC) has recommended cash memos on every purchase by consumer saying the practice will empower consumers and ensure accountability.
The recommendations came following the complaints of fraudulent sales in north Kashmir particularly Sopore’s Hygam.
Speaking to the media, President District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (DCDRC), Peerzada Qousar Hussain said that consumers can file complaints with them. “No fee is required to lodge a complaint, just a simple white paper complaint will be entertained and acted upon and will be redressed within a period of three months,” he said.
Peerzada said that by checking ISI mark, quality product, selling prices, expiry dates, the consumers can protect themselves from the cheating and fraud.
Underscoring the importance of a cash memo as legal and tangible proof of a transaction, the president DCDRC said that the document not only serves as evidence of purchase but also aids consumers in establishing their case in the event of disputes or grievances.
“In case a person is not able to come to the court in-person, he/she can file a complaint online via an online portal which has marked its presence recently – edaakhil.nic.in (eFilling). We have so far received 2-3 online complaints, which are under process right now”, he added.
Meanwhile, the traders federation in Sopore issued a directive to shopkeepers, urging them to not sell products without providing proper bills to the customers.
“The shopkeepers are urged to adopt a practice of transparency by ensuring that consumers receive documented proof of their purchase. This is to enhance consumer trust in local businesses. Providing bills not only will ensure transparency in transactions but also builds confidence among consumers regarding the authenticity of products and services”, said Mohammed Ashraf Ganie, a trade leader.