I saw a misleading advertisement about a health product in Surat, how to complain?

Detailed Legal Analysis

If you have encountered a misleading advertisement about a health product in Surat, you can file a complaint with the relevant authorities and take legal action under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.

Here are the steps you should follow to lodge your complaint:

• Gather Evidence: Collect all relevant information regarding the advertisement, including:
• Copies of the advertisement (print, online, or broadcast).
• Details about the product, including its claims and ingredients.
• Any receipts or purchase proofs if you bought the product.
• Identify the Appropriate Authority: Depending on the nature of the advertisement, you can approach:
• The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) for self-regulation in advertising standards.
• The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) if the product is a food item or supplement.
• The Consumer Forum if you have suffered a loss or injury due to the misleading advertisement.
• File a Complaint with ASCI: If you choose to approach ASCI:
• Visit the ASCI website and fill out the complaint form.
• Provide all necessary details and evidence.
• ASCI usually takes 30 days to respond to complaints.
• File a Complaint with FSSAI: If applicable:
• Visit the FSSAI website or contact the regional office.
• Submit your complaint along with supporting documents.
• Approach Consumer Forum: If you wish to seek compensation:
• Draft a complaint detailing your grievances, loss, and the misleading nature of the advertisement.
• File the complaint in the appropriate Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum under Section 12 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
• Attach all evidence and documents to support your case.

Furthermore, you can also report the misleading advertisement to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs or the Directorate of Advertising and Visual Publicity (DAVP) for further action. Misleading advertisements are covered under Section 2(28) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, which defines unfair trade practices.

Remember, timely action is crucial in such cases to ensure consumer rights are protected.