Right to be Informed

Right to be informed: When we buy any product, we find certain details on the packets such as price, date of manufacture, expiry date, ingredients used, address of manufacturers, etc. On medicines, we find direction of use, risk associated, etc and on garments we see directions of washing. The manufacturers have to display this information because consumers have the Right to be informed about the particulars of goods and services they purchased. Government has made it mandatory to mention all ingredients and safety features, date of manufacture, price, quantity, expiry date, and direction for use, etc on the pack of a product.

This information is given because it helps the consumer in making an informed buying decision. If the product proves to be defective in any way, the consumer can complain and ask for compensation or replacement.

For example, if we buy a product and find it defective within the warranty period or expiry date, we can ask for a replacement. Thus, if traders sell medicines that have expired, severe action can be taken against them. Similarly, one can protest and complain if someone sells some goods at more than the printed price i.e. Maximum Retail Price (MRP) on the packing. Consumers can also bargain with the seller to sell at a lesser price than the MRP.

Use of RTI for Consumers: In October 2005, the Government of India enacted a law, popularly known as RTI (Right to Information) Act, which ensures its citizens all the information about the functioning of government departments.

An example of using RTI is given below: Amrita attended the interview for a government job and did well, but did not receive information about her selection. The officials also refused to answer her queries. She then filed an application under the RTI Act, in reply to which she was informed about the reasons for delay in informing her. Later on she got her call letter for appointment also.

Sample Questions

(More Questions for each concept available in Login)

Question : 1

When was the Right to information Act passed?
A. September 2004	B. October 2005	C. November 2006	D. December 2007
Right Option : B
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Question : 2

What do you mean by MRP?
A. Minimum Rate Price	B. Maximum Retail Price	C. Maximum Retail Product	D. Major Reduced Product
Right Option : B
View Explanation

Question : 3

In October 2005, The Government of India enacted a law, popularly known as Right to Information (RTI) Act, which ensures its citizens all the information about the functions of
A. Private departments	B. Public department	C. Local department	D. Government department
Right Option : D
View Explanation