In Sagar district, Madhya Pradesh, Chakresh Jain’s unwavering pursuit of justice over a seemingly insignificant amount – Rs 1.50 – highlights the crucial importance of consumer rights. This seemingly trivial sum became the focal point of a seven-year legal battle against a Bharat Gas agency. The dispute stemmed from a gas cylinder delivery on November 14, 2017, where the delivery person collected Rs 755 instead of Rs 753.50, refusing to return the remaining Rs 1.50 despite Jain’s request for a refund.
Undeterred by the gas agency’s dismissive attitude, Jain formally complained to both the agency and the National Consumer Forum. When these initial complaints yielded no results, he filed a case with the District Consumer Forum in Sagar on July 15, 2019. The gas agency, throughout the proceedings, attempted to minimize Jain’s concerns, mocking his persistence. However, with the support of his advocate, Rajesh Singh, Jain persevered.
After a five-year hearing process, the consumer forum delivered a landmark judgment. Recognizing the agency’s deficiency in service, the court ordered the agency to repay the Rs 1.50, along with a 6% annual interest, within two months. Furthermore, the agency was instructed to pay Rs 2,000 as compensation for the mental, financial, and service-related hardships Jain endured, and an additional Rs 2,000 to cover his legal expenses.
Jain’s victory transcends the monetary value of the dispute. It serves as a potent reminder to businesses of their ethical responsibilities towards consumers and the importance of fair treatment. As Jain himself stated, “It was not just about Rs 1.50; it was a fight for our rights and self-respect.” His perseverance underscores the significance of advocating for consumer rights, even in seemingly minor instances of unfair practice.