Chapter VIII - Miscellaneous
Section 99
Section 99: Power to give directions by Central Government
The CCPA is bound by written Central Government directions on policy questions, after an opportunity to state its views so far as practicable.
On this page
Need advice on Section 99?
This article is for general information. Refer to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 official text for the official provisions. If you need professional advice for your situation, contact Bizeneed.
Statutory text
Bare law
(1) Without prejudice to the foregoing provisions of this Act, the Central Authority, shall, in exercise of its powers or the performance of its functions under this Act, be bound by such directions on questions of policy, as the Central Government may give in writing to it from time to time: Provided that the Central Authority shall, as far as practicable, be given an opportunity to express its views before any direction is given under this sub-section. (2) The decision of the Central Government whether a question is one of policy or not shall be final.
Key takeaways
Statutory scope
The CCPA is bound by written Central Government directions on policy questions, after an opportunity to state its views so far as practicable.
Key limit
The provision concerns policy oversight of the CCPA, not an ad hoc direction to an individual trader.
Practical response
When a policy direction affects a case, obtain the written direction and separate it from the CCPA’s case-specific order.
Apply the statutory test
Keep the written policy instrument distinct from an individual enforcement order.
Prepare the response
When a policy direction affects a case, obtain the written direction and separate it from the CCPA’s case-specific order.
The Government’s determination whether a question is policy is stated to be final.
Illustrative example
A trade association sees a new written policy direction and checks how the CCPA applies it to industry-wide enforcement.
Official sources
Practical checklist
Do
- When a policy direction affects a case, obtain the written direction and separate it from the CCPA’s case-specific order.
- Keep dated records of the relevant goods, notices, decisions and official communications.
Avoid
- The Government’s determination whether a question is policy is stated to be final.
Glossary
- Policy direction
- A written Central Government direction on a question of policy under this section.
Frequently asked questions
Must a CCPA policy direction be written?
Yes. Subsection (1) specifies written Central Government directions on questions of policy.
Does the CCPA get to state its views?
The Central Authority is to have that opportunity as far as practicable before the direction.
Need help applying this provision to your situation?
Contact BizeneedLast updated 10 October 2026