Panel Highlights Slow Resolution of Consumer Cases on E-Daakhil; Calls for Immediate Action

quick Summary

• A parliamentary Standing Committee on Consumer Affairs, chaired by Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, has raised concerns about low consumer case resolution rates (23%) on the government’s e-daakhil platform.
• the committee recommended immediate steps, including a dedicated monitoring cell to track progress adn resolve bottlenecks in grievance redressal processes.
• While acknowledging the benefits of digitisation via systems like e-Jagriti and CONFONET initiatives for filing complaints online, it urged additional administrative measures for timely justice.
• delays were noted in installing video conferencing facilities under the CONFONET initiative; only six out of 45 locations met their installation targets due to project management issues. Clear action plans with timelines were demanded.
• On Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF), the committee called for predictable budget allocations to address market fluctuations rather than relying on sale proceeds or transfers from other schemes.
• A detailed need assessment factoring population size and price volatility was recommended for efficient budget planning and timely market interventions.

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Indian Opinion Analysis

The low consumer case resolution rate under platforms like e-daakhil highlights inefficiencies that could erode public trust in India’s grievance redressal system despite its digitisation initiatives. While online filing considerably enhances accessibility, persistent delays underscore the need for robust implementation frameworks such as monitoring cells as advocated by the parliamentary panel. Additionally, project management challenges-including slow deployment of tools like video conferencing-signal potential systemic gaps requiring concrete corrective measures.

On financial mechanisms like the PSF, reliance on ad hoc funding risks unpredictability during critical price fluctuations that impact consumers and producers alike. Establishing stable budgetary allocations through thorough data analysis could enhance economic resilience against inflation shocks while ensuring equitable outcomes across all strata of society.

the committee’s call highlights larger governance imperatives-the balance between adopting technology-driven solutions and ensuring their operational viability through structured oversight mechanisms remains key to fulfilling citizens’ rights effectively.