Sambalpur Consumer Court Imposes ₹3 Lakh Fine on Parking Contractor for Overcharging ₹12

Sambalpur: In a recent ruling, the Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Sambalpur has ordered a parking contractor to compensate a consumer with over Rs 3 lakh. The case stemmed from an incident where the consumer, identified as Prafulla Kumar Dash was charged Rs 24 instead of the standard Rs 12 for parking his scooter near the Sambalpur railway station on November 1, 2023.

The court imposed a hefty fine of Rs 2 lakh on the contractor and directed an additional Rs 1 lakh deposit into the district’s consumer welfare fund. Moreover, the contractor is mandated to refund the excess Rs 12 with a 12% annual interest rate, alongside paying Rs 10,000 in litigation costs to Dash.

Dash’s complaint highlighted the discrepancy in parking charges, prompting the Commission to intervene. Following a thorough examination of evidence and arguments from both parties, the Commission rendered its verdict.

Apart from the financial compensation, the Commission issued strict directives to prevent future exploitation of consumers. The contractor is instructed to prominently display rate charts, ensure cleanliness of the parking area with provisions for drinking water and lavatories, and maintain dust-free conditions.

Non-compliance with the ruling will result in a 14% interest penalty until the full amount is paid, emphasizing the seriousness of adhering to consumer rights and fair trade practices.