NAVIGATING THE MAZE: ADDRESSING THE EVOLVING LANDSCAPE OF CONSUMER CONTRACTS

AUTHOR – ANANYA RAY, STUDENT AT KIIT SCHOOL OF LAW, BHUBANESHWAR

BEST CITATION – ANANYA RAY, NAVIGATING THE MAZE: ADDRESSING THE EVOLVING LANDSCAPE OF CONSUMER CONTRACTS, ILE LEX SPECULUM (ILE LS), 1 (1) OF 2023, PG. 292-299, APIS – 3920 – 0036 | ISBN – 978-81-964391-3-2

Abstract

Consumer contracts play a pivotal role in the global marketplace, regulating the relationship between consumers and businesses. In the context of India, a country experiencing rapid economic growth and increasing consumerism, safeguarding the rights of consumers has emerged as a crucial concern. This article explores contemporary issues in consumer contracts and examines the challenges and opportunities in protecting the rights of Indian consumers. One significant contemporary issue addressed in this article is the prevalence of unfair contract terms and practices in consumer agreements. Various abusive clauses, such as excessive penalty charges, unilateral modifications, and unfair arbitration clauses, often go unnoticed by consumers. The article delves into the challenges faced by Indian consumers in negotiating fair and balanced contracts, exploring the role of consumer awareness, education, and empowerment in mitigating these challenges. Moreover, the article sheds light on the emerging field of e-commerce and its impact on consumer contracts. With the growing popularity of online shopping platforms, new issues such as data privacy, cybersecurity, and dispute resolution mechanisms have arisen. The article examines the legal framework surrounding these issues and explores potential solutions to ensure the protection of Indian consumers in the digital sphere. Lastly, the article highlights notable initiatives and best practices employed by businesses and regulators to protect the rights of Indian consumers. It explores the role of self-regulatory mechanisms, voluntary codes of conduct, and consumer redressal agencies in promoting fair practices and improving consumer experiences. The article touches upon the role of technology in consumer contracts and the challenges associated with emerging areas like artificial intelligence, digital transactions, and data protection. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive legislation and robust regulatory frameworks to ensure transparency, accountability, and consumer trust in these evolving domains. 

Keywords : Consumer Contracts, Contemporary Issues, Protecting Rights, Indian Consumers, Consumer Protection, Contractual Obligations, Legal Framework, Data privacy, Dispute Resolution, Digitalization, Technology