The correct option is 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Consumer Protection Act establishes a structured legal framework to protect consumer interests. A central feature of this framework is the establishment of a specialized mechanism for the adjudication of consumer disputes, known as Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: The Consumer Protection Act (originally 1986, replaced by the 2019 Act) establishes a three-tier quasi-judicial machinery at the District, State, and National levels. These are the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, the State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, and the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: These commissions are quasi-judicial bodies, not purely administrative ones. They are vested with the powers of a civil court for specific purposes, such as summoning witnesses, enforcing attendance, and receiving evidence on affidavits. They adjudicate disputes and issue legally binding orders for compensation and redressal.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The system provides for an appellate hierarchy. A consumer or party aggrieved by the order of a District Commission can appeal to the State Commission. Similarly, appeals against the orders of the State Commission lie with the National Commission. Under specific circumstances, appeals against the National Commission's orders can be made to the Supreme Court of India.
Key Takeaway:
Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions are quasi-judicial bodies organized in a three-tier hierarchy (District, State, National) to ensure accessible and specialized justice for consumers, with clear provisions for appellate jurisdiction.