How to File a Consumer Complaint Online in India (e-Daakhil Portal Guide 2026)
· 8 min read · Consumer Law
Complete guide to filing consumer complaints online through the e-Daakhil portal. Step-by-step process, documents required, fees, jurisdiction, and tips for success.
The Consumer Protection Act 2019 and the e-Daakhil portal have made it easier than ever for consumers to file complaints without physically visiting a consumer forum. This guide walks you through the entire online filing process, from determining jurisdiction to tracking your case status.
What Qualifies as a Consumer Complaint?
Under the Consumer Protection Act 2019, you can file a complaint for: Defective goods purchased. Deficiency in services availed. Unfair trade practices by the seller or service provider. Restrictive trade practices. Excessive pricing beyond MRP. Misleading advertisements. Goods or services that are hazardous to life and safety.
Determining the Right Forum
Consumer complaints are filed based on the value of goods or services plus compensation claimed. District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission: Claims up to Rs 50 lakh. State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission: Claims between Rs 50 lakh and Rs 2 crore. National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC): Claims exceeding Rs 2 crore.
Jurisdiction is determined by: Where the opposite party resides or carries on business. Where the cause of action wholly or partly arose. Where the complainant resides (only if the opposite party consents or the commission permits).
Step-by-Step e-Daakhil Filing Process
Step 1: Visit edaakhil.nic.in and register as a complainant using your Aadhaar or mobile number. Step 2: Log in and click on File New Case. Step 3: Select the appropriate forum based on your claim value. Step 4: Fill in complainant details including name, address, and contact information. Step 5: Fill in opposite party details - include the correct registered name and address of the company. Step 6: Upload your complaint document (in PDF format) which should contain the facts, grounds, and prayer. Step 7: Upload supporting documents such as bills, receipts, correspondence, product photos, and warranty cards. Step 8: Pay the filing fee online through net banking, UPI, or card payment. Step 9: Submit and note your case number for future reference.
Filing Fees (2026)
For District Commission: No filing fee for complaints with value up to Rs 5 lakh. For claims between Rs 5-10 lakh the fee is Rs 200. For claims between Rs 10-20 lakh the fee is Rs 400. For claims between Rs 20-50 lakh the fee is Rs 1,000. These fees are paid online at the time of filing.
Note: As of January 2025, the government has launched e-Jagriti as the unified next-generation platform replacing e-Daakhil. The filing process remains similar but with an improved interface. Both portals may be functional during the transition period.
Documents Required
Identity proof of the complainant. Address proof. Purchase receipt, invoice, or bill. Warranty or guarantee card (if applicable). Correspondence with the opposite party (complaints, emails, messages). Photographs or videos showing the defect or deficiency. Expert opinion (if available). Bank statements showing payment.
Tips for a Successful Consumer Complaint
Always send a written complaint to the company first and keep proof. File the complaint within 2 years from the date the cause of action arose (limitation period). Be specific about the relief sought - quantum of compensation, replacement, refund, or specific performance. Include all correspondence showing your attempts to resolve the matter. Name the correct opposite party - include both the seller and manufacturer if relevant.
Timeline for Resolution
Under the Consumer Protection Act 2019, cases must be disposed of within 3 months from the date of receipt of notice by the opposite party (if no testing of goods is required) or within 5 months (if testing is required). In practice, cases typically take 6-12 months for disposal.