LI Network
Published on: November 01, 2023 at 00:07 IST
The Hyderabad District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has ruled in favor of a dissatisfied customer, Yeshwant Phatak, in a case against LG Electronics India Private Limited.
The dispute arose due to a faulty refrigerator purchased by Mr. Phatak. The commission found that the recurring issues with the appliance and the company’s inability to resolve them constituted a deficiency in service and unfair trade practices.
This ruling was made by a bench of the Commission, comprising Sri. M. Gopal Reddy (President), Smt. Shyamala, and Smt. R. Narayan Reddy (Member). The complaint was filed under Section 35 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, seeking redress for the customer.
Mr. Phatak had acquired an LG refrigerator for Rs. 39,329 on September 14, 2022. However, shortly after delivery, the refrigerator encountered problems, causing significant inconvenience to the customer.
He reached out to LG Electronics multiple times regarding the issue, and the company’s technicians made three separate attempts to service the refrigerator on September 25, October 5, and October 20, 2022. Despite these efforts, the problem persisted. As a result, the Commission concluded that there was indeed a defect in LG’s product.
The evidence presented by the complainant, including invoices, service request closures, and communication records with LG Care, all pointed to a substantial defect in the product. Consequently, the Commission determined that LG Electronics and its employees were liable for both a deficiency in service and unfair trade practices.
As a result of this ruling, LG Electronics has been directed to take the following actions:
- Pay the product cost of Rs. 32,431/-
- Provide reasonable compensation of Rs. 5,000 for mental distress and financial hardship.
- Cover costs amounting to Rs. 1,000.
- Mr. Phatak is required to return the LG GL-S342SPZY refrigerator upon receiving the above amount.
The opposing party, LG Electronics, has been given a 45-day window to comply with these orders.
This case is Titled “Yeshwant Phatak Vs. The Managing Director, LG Electronics India Private Limited,” with the case number C.C. No 59 of 2023.
