Government Employees Cannot Dispute Retirement Benefits In Consumer Forums: NCDRC

The National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, chaired by Dr. Inder Jit Singh, ruled that government servants are not considered "consumers" under the Consumer Protection Act. They must claim retirement benefits according to service conditions and regulations.\r

In a case involving a bank employee's pension issue, the commission highlighted the Supreme Court's stance and previous judgments. It emphasized that service matters cannot be addressed under consumer law. Despite the bank's argument, the commission upheld the State Commission's decision to allow interest on pension arrears, citing principles of fairness and natural justice. \r

The commission dismissed the bank's petition, affirming the State Commission's ruling.