LAHORE: In a significant legal reform, the Punjab Assembly has enacted amendments to the Punjab Consumer Protection Act, in response to numerous complaints from the legal fraternity and businesses; resulting in the abolition of all Consumer Courts across the province. This policy shift marks a fundamental restructuring of the consumer dispute resolution mechanism—one that holds direct relevance for IP-based businesses, brand owners, and consumer-focused enterprises.
Under the revised framework, all pending and future consumer complaints will be transferred to the respective District Judiciary. The District Judge will now serve as the Administrative Judge, empowered to entrust consumer cases to District & Sessions Judges or Additional District Judges.
Strategic Implication for Businesses and Brands:
Consumer complaints will no longer be filed in separate Consumer Courts. Businesses require to address such matters through the relevant District Courts across Punjab.
As this legal shift takes effect, businesses are advised to revisit their consumer protection protocols, advertising practices, packaging claims, and enforcement strategies. The centralization of consumer litigation within the District Courts reinforces the need for robust compliance and proactive IP protection.
At Ali & Associates, we view this transition as a critical development for Businesses, Intellectual Property Assets holders, Trademark Owners, Brand Value, and Product Reputation.
