Right to Reject: Simple Guide to Your Legal Power in India

Ever bought something that turned out to be faulty, or signed a contract you later realized was unfair? You have a legal tool called the “right to reject.” It lets you walk away, demand a refund, or cancel an agreement without penalty – if you follow the rules.

When Can You Exercise the Right to Reject?

The Consumer Protection Act gives you a clear path to reject defective goods, sub‑standard services, or misleading offers. If a product doesn’t match its description, is damaged on arrival, or stops working within a reasonable time, you can return it and claim a full refund. The same applies to services that aren’t performed as promised – think of a plumber who never fixes the leak after charging you.

In contract law, you can reject an agreement if there’s a fundamental breach. For example, if a landlord promises a fully furnished apartment but delivers an empty one, you can refuse to pay rent until the issue is fixed, or even walk away from the lease.

Timing matters. Most consumer laws require you to act within 30 days of receiving the product, but some warranties extend that period to six months or a year. Check the fine print and note the deadline, because missing it can lock you out of the right to reject.

How to Use Your Right to Reject Effectively

First, gather proof. Keep the receipt, take photos of the defect, and note any communication with the seller or service provider. These documents become your evidence if the other side disputes your claim.

Next, notify the seller in writing. A short email or a typed letter works fine – just state the product name, the problem, and that you’re exercising your right to reject. Ask for a full refund, replacement, or repair, depending on what you want.

If the seller refuses, don’t panic. You can approach the consumer court or the local consumer dispute redressal forum. Filing a complaint is cheaper and faster than a regular court case. The forum will ask for the same proof you collected, and most disputes settle within a few weeks.

Remember, the right to reject isn’t unlimited. It doesn’t apply if you caused the damage, or if the product was clearly marked as “as‑is” with a clear disclaimer. Also, the law doesn’t cover services that are purely discretionary, like a personal trainer’s advice, unless there’s a clear breach of contract.

Finally, stay calm and polite. A respectful tone often leads to quicker resolutions. Sellers prefer to avoid negative reviews and legal hassles, so they’ll usually work with you if you present a solid case.

Knowing when and how to use the right to reject can save you money, time, and stress. Keep these steps in mind next time something goes wrong, and make sure your consumer rights work for you, not against you.