In a significant legal decision, the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Sambalpur, Odisha, has imposed a hefty fine of Rs 25,000 on the owner of a photocopy shop. The penalty comes as a result of the shop owner's refusal to return Rs 3 to a customer. Furthermore, the shop owner will be subject to an additional 9% interest per annum until the amount is repaid to the complainant.
The court order explicitly states, "The accused is directed to refund Rs 3 to the complainant as excess money received for Xerox charges, along with Rs 25,000 as compensation for the mental agony and harassment caused to the complainant. Should the accused fail to comply within 30 days, the amount will accrue an annual interest rate of 9% until it is realized by the complainant."
The case revolves around Prafulla Kumar Dash, a journalist residing in Sambalpur district. Dash visited Goyal Printing Zone in Sambalpur on April 28, 2023, to obtain a photocopy of a document. He paid the shopkeeper a total of five rupees, expecting to receive three rupees as a change since the regular photocopy rate is Rs 2 per copy.
However, the shopkeeper adamantly refused to return the change and used abusive language towards Dash. After repeated requests, the shopkeeper reluctantly returned the full five rupees, making a derogatory comment, stating that he was "donating the money to a beggar." Additionally, the shopkeeper failed to provide a receipt or bill, which constitutes a violation of fair trade practices.
The court's decision underscores the importance of fair and ethical business practices, emphasizing that customers' rights and dignity must be upheld. In this case, the shop owner's refusal to return a mere Rs 3 resulted in a significant financial penalty, serving as a reminder to businesses to treat their customers with respect and integrity.
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