The conspicuous absence of a consumer protection body in Ukhrul District has precipitated a crisis of confidence among consumers, who are increasingly vulnerable to exploitation by unscrupulous businesses. This glaring omission is a stark reminder of the systemic failures that plague our district, where the rule of law is oftentimes observed in the breach.
In the absence of a robust consumer protection framework, consumers are left to navigate a labyrinthine landscape of unregulated markets, where they are frequently fleeced by merchants who engage in unscrupulous practices. The lack of institutional mechanisms for redress, reimbursement, and compensation has created a culture of impunity, where businesses are emboldened to disregard consumer rights with abandon.
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One of the most egregious manifestations of this crisis is the rampant sale of expired goods, which poses a significant threat to public health and safety. Furthermore, the absence of uniform pricing has created a situation where consumers are subjected to arbitrary and extortionate prices, which are often justified by spurious claims of “market forces.”
The question that begs to be asked is: what is the rationale behind the administration’s failure to establish a consumer protection body? Why have our elected representatives and policymakers failed to prioritize the interests of consumers, who are the lifeblood of our economy?
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The answer, unfortunately, lies in the systemic apathy and lack of accountability that pervades our governance structures. It is imperative that the administration takes immediate action to establish a consumer protection body that is empowered to address the grievances of consumers, hold businesses accountable for their actions, and promote a culture of transparency and accountability.
As consumers, we must demand more from our elected representatives and policymakers. We must raise our voices against consumer exploitation and demand justice for those who have been wronged. The time for change is now. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and our community to create a society that values and protects the rights of all its citizens.
The author may be reached at ashimrah.eifs@gmail.com
(The opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ukhrul Times. Ukhrul Times values and encourages diverse perspectives.)
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