In a move aimed at enhancing consumer protection and access to legal remedies, the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi has issued a gazette notification declaring banking, non-banking financial company services, and gas supply services as Public Utility Services under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.
The notification, published on 6 August 2025 by the Department of Law, Justice and Legislative Affairs, comes into force with immediate effect upon its publication in the Official Gazette.
📜 Legal Basis:
This declaration has been made under clause (b) of Section 22A of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, which empowers the appropriate government to notify certain services as public utility services if deemed necessary in the public interest.
The decision follows a recommendation from the Executive Chairman of the Delhi State Legal Services Authority, and has been approved by the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi.
🏦 Services Now Classified as Public Utility:
- Banking services
- Services provided by non-banking financial companies
- Supply of gas services
⚖️ What This Means for the Public:
- These services will now fall under the special dispute resolution mechanism of Permanent Lok Adalats for quicker, cost-effective redressal of grievances.
- Consumers and service providers will benefit from reduced litigation costs, faster settlements, and increased legal access.
- It also places a higher obligation on service providers to ensure transparency and accountability in delivering essential services.
This significant policy change underscores Delhi’s commitment to protecting consumer rights and promoting fair dispute resolution in essential service sectors.