VYAVASTHAPAK C. PRINT (INDIA)LTD. vs LAXMI AGRO CHEMICAL

The Supreme Court held that the complainant qualifies as a 'consumer' under Section 2(1)(d) of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, as the purchased machine was intended for self-employment. The Court found that the District Forum and subsequent commissions failed to allow both parties to present evidence regarding the consumer status and limitation period, leading to a procedural error. Consequently, the appeal was allowed, the impugned orders were set aside, and the matter was remitted to the District Forum for a fresh decision with opportunities for evidence presentation.