How to File a Consumer Complaint in Pune in 2026: National Consumer Helpline, e-Daakhil Online Filing, Fees and Time Limit
Try the National Consumer Helpline (1915) first, then file online on e-Daakhil with Pune District Consumer Commission. Fees, limits and the 2-year deadline.
Photo: DesiBoy101 / CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
If a seller, online platform, builder or service provider in Pune has cheated you or refused a refund, first raise it on the National Consumer Helpline (call 1915 or use the NCH app). If that does not resolve it, file a case online on e-Daakhil with the Pune District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission. Filing is free for claims up to Rs 5 lakh, you do not need a lawyer, and you must file within two years.
Step 1: Complain to the company and the National Consumer Helpline
- Write to the company’s customer care and grievance officer, and keep the ticket numbers and emails.
- If there is no fair reply, register a complaint with the National Consumer Helpline: call 1915, send a WhatsApp message to 8800001915, or use consumerhelpline.gov.in or the NCH app.
- NCH passes your complaint to the company, many of which are partners, and follows up. Many cases settle at this stage.
Sending a legal notice before filing is not compulsory, but a clear written demand with a deadline often prompts a settlement, and it strengthens your case.
Step 2: File online on e-Daakhil
- Go to edaakhil.nic.in and register as a complainant with your mobile number and email.
- Click File New Case and choose Consumer Complaint.
- Select the commission based on the value of the goods or services you paid for (see the table below), and choose Maharashtra and Pune.
- Enter your details and the opposite party’s (the company or seller), then write the facts in date order and state the relief you want: refund, replacement, compensation, costs and interest.
- Upload the documents as PDFs and the affidavit.
- Pay the fee online if it applies, and submit. You get a case number to track the hearing dates.
You can file where you live or work, not only where the company is based, so a Pune resident can file in Pune even against a company headquartered elsewhere.
Which commission and what fee?
| Value of goods or services paid | Commission | Filing fee |
|---|---|---|
| Up to Rs 5 lakh | District Commission, Pune | Nil |
| Above Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh | District Commission, Pune | Rs 200 |
| Above Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh | District Commission, Pune | Rs 400 |
| Above Rs 20 lakh to Rs 50 lakh | District Commission, Pune | Rs 1,000 |
| Above Rs 50 lakh to Rs 2 crore | Maharashtra State Commission | As per regulations |
| Above Rs 2 crore | National Commission (NCDRC) | As per regulations |
The value is what you paid, not the compensation you are claiming. The current limits were notified in December 2021.
Documents to upload
- Bill, invoice or receipt, and payment proof (bank or UPI)
- Photos or videos of the defect, or screenshots of the deficiency in service
- Warranty card or terms and conditions
- All emails, chats and complaint numbers with the company, and the NCH docket number
- Copy of your legal notice and its postal proof, if sent
- Affidavit supporting the complaint, and your ID proof
How long does it take?
The Act sets a target of three months to decide a complaint where no testing of goods is needed, and five months where testing is needed. In practice, cases often take longer because of the commission’s workload. The commission may also suggest mediation, which can be faster.
Time limit for filing
You must file within two years from the date the problem arose. A delay can be condoned only if you show sufficient cause, so do not wait.
Lost money to an online scam rather than a genuine seller? That is a cyber crime, not a consumer case; call 1930 immediately and report on the national cyber crime portal.
This article is general information, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
How do I file a consumer complaint online in Pune?
Register on edaakhil.nic.in, choose File New Case, select the Pune District Commission, describe the facts and relief, upload documents and submit.
Is there a fee to file a consumer complaint?
No fee for claims up to Rs 5 lakh. Above that, the District Commission fee is Rs 200 to Rs 1,000 depending on the amount.
Do I need a lawyer for a consumer case?
No. You can file and argue your own case. A lawyer can help in complex or high-value matters.
What is the time limit to file a consumer complaint?
Two years from the date the cause of action arose, under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
What is the National Consumer Helpline number?
Call 1915 or send a WhatsApp message to 8800001915. You can also complain at consumerhelpline.gov.in.
