UP consumer panel on strike8217; for facilities, funds

They have said that 8220;due to the shortage of stenos, in about 300 cases though the hearings have been completed, judgements are yet to be delivered.8221; Complaining about the cash crunch, the Commission chief claimed he and the members have so far spent more than Rs 50,000 from their pockets to keep the commission functioning.

The letter says that 8220;despite heavy odds being faced by the Commission for the past more than one year, the sittings were being held on a regular basis to redress the grievances of the consumer litigants.

8220;But nothing has been done by the government to ensure smooth running ofthe Commission despite repeated requests to it,8221; the letter says. The two have complained about the 8220;complete silence8221; on the appointment of the Registrar, filling up of the posts of stenographers and PAs, maintenance of telephones, vehicles and essential equipment and the sanitary conditions at the Commission8217;s office.

8220;The conditions are such that it is very difficult to continue with even theregular and urgent work of the Commission,8221; they have said. 8220;Even thecases on which the High Court has issued time-bound directions for hearing onwrit petitions cannot be disposed of.8221;