The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Pune fined Paytm Rs.12,000 for unjustly freezing a shopkeeper’s account, highlighting the importance of digital consumer rights protection. Despite unfreezing the account post-complaint, the lack of justification led to the penalty, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in financial transactions. The ruling sets a significant precedent for future similar cases, emphasizing evolving consumer protection laws in the digital age. Paytm is urged to reevaluate its policies to prioritize transparency and regulatory compliance.
The Supreme Court of India recently upheld the consumer’s right to health and quality product information in advertising. Justices directed advertisers to submit a self-declaration form confirming compliance with the Advertising Code before advertising. The court emphasized the importance of protecting consumers and urged the relevant ministries to establish a consumer complaint system.
On Wednesday (10th April): The Supreme Court of India expressed concern for public well-being, particularly regarding misleading advertisements and unregulated products. Justices emphasized that violations of the law, such as exploiting people’s trust with misleading claims, will not be tolerated. This relates to a recent contempt plea against Patanjali for marketing its product, Coronil, as a COVID-19 cure, violating drug advertising regulations.
On Monday (1st April): The Marco Polo restaurant in Kolkata has been fined for overcharging on beer and water. The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission imposed a penalty for violating Maximum Retail Price (MRP) regulations and service charge rules. The complainant was awarded a refund, mental distress compensation, and litigation charges, as the commission ruled in her favor.
Credit Suisse Today informed the Supreme Court that SpiceJet settled its dues, avoiding further defaults. Justices scheduled a hearing for July to ensure compliance. The case involves SpiceJet owing $20 million to SR Technics. The court had directed SpiceJet to settle the dues by March 15 and abstain from taking further risks. Previous disputes led to legal action.
The Chandigarh Consumer Commission fined SpiceJet and a travel agent for incomplete refunds on COVID-cancelled flights, despite ministry advisories. Complainants only received partial reimbursements. The commission ordered full refunds with interest and compensation for mental agony and litigation costs, totaling Rs.15,000. The case was titled Prahlad Bhagat Vasudeva and Ors v. SpiceJet Ltd and Anr.
The Kerala High Court has ordered the current Consumer Commission officials to continue serving until new appointments are made to ensure uninterrupted consumer protection services. Justice Basant Balaji stressed the importance of preventing hardships for citizens due to administrative vacancies. The decision aims to maintain the effectiveness of the redressal mechanism for consumer grievances.