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

Detailed Legal Analysis

If you have seen a misleading advertisement about a health product in Bhagalpur, you can file a complaint with several authorities to seek redressal.

Here are the steps you can take to lodge your complaint:

• Document the Advertisement:
  • Take screenshots or photographs of the misleading advertisement.
  • Note down the date, time, and medium where you saw the advertisement (e.g., newspaper, TV, online).
• Identify the Appropriate Authority:
  • The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) is the primary body for regulating advertisements in India.
  • You can also approach the Consumer Forum under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 if you feel the advertisement has affected your rights as a consumer.
  • In case the product is found harmful, you may file a complaint with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) if it pertains to food products or health supplements.
• Filing a Complaint with ASCI:
  • Visit the ASCI website and fill out the complaint form.
  • Provide details of the misleading advertisement, including evidence you have collected.
  • Submit the form along with any supporting documents.
• Filing a Complaint with Consumer Forum:
  • Draft a complaint letter stating the details of the misleading advertisement and how it has caused harm.
  • Attach all evidence, including the advertisement, and any medical bills if applicable.
  • File the complaint at the local Consumer Forum or online if the facility is available.
• Legal Provision:
  • Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 (Sections 2, 17, and 21), consumers can seek compensation for unfair trade practices.
  • Section 66 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999 also prohibits misleading advertising.

By following these steps, you can effectively lodge a complaint against misleading advertisements and seek justice as per Indian law.