Vadodara Cafe Fined Rs 7,000 for Overcharging Rs 21 on Water Bottle Following 7-Year Legal Battle
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Consumer court rules in favor of a citizen charged double the MRP for water, ordering compensation for mental harassment and legal fees.
A Vadodara cafe faced the consequences of overcharging a customer after a seven-year legal battle. The Vadodara Consumer Commission ruled against Kabir’s Kitchen Cafe Gallery, ordering it to pay Jatin Valangar Rs 5,000 for mental harassment and Rs 2,000 in legal costs. Additionally, the cafe was directed to refund the Rs 21 overcharged amount with 9% interest for the delay.
In October 2017, Jatin Valangar visited the cafe on a hot day and purchased a 750ml water bottle. While drinking, he noticed the menu listed the bottle at Rs 39, significantly higher than its MRP of Rs 20. With service tax, he was charged Rs 41. When Valangar raised concerns about the excessive pricing, the cafe staff dismissed his complaint rudely.
Unwilling to accept such unfair pricing, Valangar, supported by the Grahak Suraksha Jagruti Manch, filed a complaint with the Vadodara District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission. Despite being served a notice, the cafe management failed to respond.
The commission found the cafe guilty of unfair trade practices and financial exploitation. It emphasized that selling a product above its MRP violates consumer rights. The court noted that Valangar was justified in feeling shocked and angry over the incident, especially given the rude behavior of the cafe staff.
In its judgment, the court ordered:
• A refund of Rs 21 overcharged for the water bottle with 9% interest.
• Rs 5,000 compensation for mental harassment caused by the incident.
• Rs 2,000 to cover Valangar’s legal expenses.
This case serves as a landmark example of the importance of knowing and exercising consumer rights. It highlights that overcharging customers, particularly for basic items, can result in significant legal and financial consequences for businesses.
