To further strengthen the regulatory mechanism of direct selling and multi-level marketing entities, Punjab has notified Guidelines of Direct Selling for Punjab, 2020 — issued in line with the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
The guidelines would be instrumental in preventing frauds and protecting the legitimate rights and interest of the consumers, said the state Principal Secretary (Food and Supplies) KAP Sinha on Tuesday adding that the latest guidelines constitute part of broader pro-consumer vision set forth by the Food and Supplies Minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu.
Elaborating, Sinha stated that under the new norms, it will be mandatory for such entities to register themselves with the nodal department — Food and Supplies — after fulfilling the documentary prerequisites. The Department has notified a nodal officer to facilitate the implementation of the guidelines in the State.
A provision of a Monitoring Authority has been mandated under the guidelines after receiving due approval from the Chief Secretary for its constitution, said Sinha adding that it shall consist of Administrative Secretary of Department of Food, Civil and Consumer Affairs as the chairman.
