‘Retailers must give carry bags with handles for free’

Chandigarh: The state consumer commission Chandigarh has made it clear that the retailers are obligated to provide free carry bags with handles to its customers. The commission has also emphasized that these bags should not be of inferior quality or lack basic functionality.
The consumer panel further observed that the shopkeepers have a responsibility to inform customers about the key specifications of carry bags before billing them, ensuring transparency and avoiding unnecessary charges.

According to the commission, these specifications include details such as the material of the bag (whether it is made from paper, plastic, or biodegradable materials), its durability, dimensions, and weight capacity. Additionally, if the carry bag contains any branding, logos, or promotional content, this must also be disclosed, as such elements often serve as advertising for the store.
Justice Raj Shekhar Attri, president of the State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has passed these orders while hearing a plea filed by Jaspreet Singh (30), a resident of Panchkula.
The complainant in this case had purchased certain grocery items worth Rs 1,250 on Nov 16, 2021, from a store located in Sector 26, Chandigarh.
He was surprised to see that the store charged Rs 10 for the carry bag in the bill. It was further averred that he was compelled to buy the said carry bag.