In News:

• The E-Daakhil portal was launched by the Department of Consumer Affairs to promote consumer rights and ensure timely justice.
• The portal was launched nationwide with its final rollout in Ladakh on 22nd November 2024, making it operational across all states and union territories of India.

Background and Purpose:

• Introduced in September 2020, the portal was developed in response to the Consumer Protection Act 2019, which aims to address emerging consumer concerns.
• Aimed at providing a hassle-free, inexpensive, and speedy mechanism for filing consumer complaints, especially post the COVID-19 pandemic.
• E-Daakhil is an online platform that simplifies the grievance redressal process, allowing consumers to file complaints remotely, without the need for physical presence.

Portal Features:

• User-friendly interface: Simple and intuitive, allowing consumers to file and track complaints online.
• Registration process: Users can register through OTP on their mobile or an activation link via email.
• Paperless and transparent: The entire process, from filing complaints to tracking the case status, is digital and transparent.
• Consumers can file complaints, pay fees, and monitor the progress of their cases from the comfort of their homes.

Success and Impact:

• By the end of 2023, E-Daakhil was available in 35 states and union territories; with Ladakh being the latest addition in November 2024.
• Over 2.81 lakh users have registered, and 1.98 lakh cases have been filed, of which 38,453 cases have been disposed of.

Future Developments:

• E-Jagriti: A new initiative that will further streamline the case filing, tracking, and management process, reducing delays and paperwork.
• E-Jagriti aims to improve communication between parties, ensuring faster dispute resolution.