REGIONAL PROVIDENT FUND COMMISSIONER vs BHAVANI

The Supreme Court ruled that the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, applies to disputes involving pension claims under the Employees’ Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952. The Court held that the definition of 'consumer' includes individuals seeking pension benefits, thereby allowing Bhavani's claim for pension from her retirement date of 31.12.1995. The appeals against the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission's orders were dismissed, affirming the lower forums' decisions in favor of the respondent.