The Zunheboto Range Students’ Union (ZRSU), in collaboration with the department of Legal Metrology and Consumer Protection (LMCP) organized a consumer awareness programme at Zunheboto Town Hall on June 4.
Resource person LMCP Zunheboto inspector Pukhai L Swu highlighted the significance of understanding consumer rights. He stressed that consumers should be aware of their spending and what they receive in return. He said efforts are being made to promote transparency in the market so that consumers know exactly what they are paying for, which will help prevent unfair practices and build trust between buyers and sellers.
Swu also pointed out a common misconception that electronic weighing machines cannot be manipulated. He clarified that since they are man-made, they can be tampered with.
He urged the Zunheboto Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ZCCI) to routinely check weighing machines in the market. He further explained that electronic weighing machines must be able to demonstrate accuracy by measuring a test weight equal to 10% of their maximum capacity. For instance, a 100 kg machine should accurately measure a standard 10 kg test weight and should be presented near the machine.
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Swu highlighted that various unfair trade practices are prevalent in Zunheboto, especially concerning pre-packaged commodities such as dal (pulses) and sugar. These practices include selling underweight packages, overcharging, or offering substandard products, he said.
Noting that many imported goods are being sold in the market without proper Maximum Retail Price (MRP) labeling, the official said these violate consumer protection laws.
According to existing law, all imported pre-packaged commodities meant for retail must display the MRP, importer’s details, net quantity, and date of import, Swu explained and further encouraged consumers to report to consumer protection authorities or the LMCP if they come across products without MRP labels.
He also raised concerns about the disuse of coins in Zunheboto, questioning if this reflected an unofficial ban, as coins remain legal tender under the Reserve Bank of India regulations.
Zunheboto District Legal Services Authority retainer lawyer Easter H Yepthomi addressed legal aspects of consumer rights. She explained that a person is only considered a consumer if the goods or services are purchased for personal use and not for commercial purposes. Yepthomi stated that individuals under 18 cannot file consumer complaints on their own; a
parent or guardian must do so on their behalf. She also advised consumers to prepare at least three copies of a complaint, accompanied by supporting documents, when filing at the district level. She emphasized the importance of always asking for a bill or receipt, even for small purchases, as it can serve as proof in the future.
Another resource person, Kikheto Muru, president of ZCCI urged participants to spread awareness about consumer rights and responsibilities to prevent exploitation. He emphasized that many consumers blindly accept whatever shopkeepers offer without checking the product thoroughly. He stressed that consumers should always check vital information like expiry dates to ensure safety and quality, thereby protecting themselves from health risks and unfair trade practices.
Earlier, the program was chaired by ZRSU finance secretary Kitolu S Kiba while ZRSU president Viki K Zhimo delivered the welcome address and ZRSU general secretary Holonto S Zhimomi proposed the vote of thanks.
The programme saw a participation of over 600 individuals, including ZCCI officials, members of the Zunheboto GBs Association, and students from Cornerstone Higher Secondary School, Immanuel Higher Secondary School, Olympic Higher Secondary School, Woodland Higher Secondary School, and Bloomfield Higher Secondary School.
