A Tale of Upholding Accountability: Pune Consumer Wins Battle Against Wrongly Delivered Sofa-Cum-Bed
In a significant win for consumer rights, Pune resident Vidya Baliram Jambhulkar emerged victorious in a legal battle against a furniture store for the wrongful delivery of a sofa-cum-bed. Here’s a detailed look at the case and its ruling:
Vidya Baliram Jambhulkar, a resident of Pune, had purchased a sofa-cum-bed from Shree Rajmata Furniture in Wadgaon, with expectations of receiving a light grey-colored piece to complement her home decor. However, the store delivered a sofa of a different color, breaching the terms and conditions outlined on the receipt.
Unsatisfied with the incorrect delivery and the store’s reluctance to address the error, Vidya took her grievance to the Pune District Consumers Grievance Redressal Commission.
Presided over by President Rahul Patil and members Sarita Patil and Kshtija Kulkarni, the Commission ruled decisively in favor of the consumer. The furniture store was directed to retrieve the wrongly delivered item at their expense and refund the ₹40,500 paid by Vidya. Additionally, the store was instructed to compensate Vidya with ₹7,000, covering both compensation and suit charges. Despite receiving multiple notices, the store owner failed to appear before the Commission or provide written statements, further strengthening the consumer’s case.
The Commission denounced the store’s actions as unfair trade practices and upheld the integrity of the complainant. A 45-day window was provided to the store to comply with the order.
This ruling stands as a significant triumph for consumer rights, underscoring the necessity of fair business practices and accountability within the furniture retail sector. Vidya’s successful pursuit of justice serves as a testament to the efficacy of consumer grievance redressal mechanisms in safeguarding consumers from malpractices and upholding their rights.
