Background: The Bombay High Court recently heard a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by a consumer rights organization, highlighting the large number of vacant posts in consumer forums across the state. Parties: The PIL was filed by the Consumer Welfare Association, while the respondents included the State Government and the Consumer Protection Council. Legal issues: The primary issue before the court was whether the State Government had failed in its duty to ensure that consumer forums were functioning effectively by not filling vacant posts. Court observations: The court directed the State Government to fill the vacant posts in consumer forums within a specified timeframe, observing that the delay was causing inconvenience to consumers who were seeking redressal of their grievances. The court also noted that the State Government had a responsibility to ensure that consumer forums were functioning efficiently. Significance: The order is significant as it highlights the importance of ensuring that consumer forums are functioning effectively to protect the rights of consumers. The direction to fill vacant posts will help to reduce the backlog of cases and provide speedy redressal to consumers. The case underscores the need for the State Government to take proactive steps to strengthen consumer protection mechanisms in the state.