Machine's Repeated Breakdowns Point To Manufacturing Defects: NCDRC

The National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) ruled that repeated breakdowns of a machine over a short period indicate inherent manufacturing defects. In this case, a consumer reported recurring issues with a newly purchased machine, which was supported by repair records. The Commission dismissed the manufacturer's claim that the defects were due to product misuse or improper maintenance, emphasizing that the burden of proof shifts to the manufacturer when a consumer raises complaints consistently. The NCDRC upheld that such defects impact the usability and longevity of the product, thereby entitling the consumer to a remedy. This decision reinforces consumer rights and places responsibility on manufacturers to ensure the quality and durability of their products. The ruling also underscores the critical role of maintenance records in substantiating claims of manufacturing defects in consumer disputes.