Delhi State Commission Holds DLF Gayatri Developers Liable For Delay In Completion Of Housing Project; Directs Refund Of 15 Lakhs

The Delhi State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission held DLF Gayatri Developers liable for significant delays in completing a housing project, ordering a refund of ₹15 lakhs to the complainant, alongside ₹1.5 lakhs for mental agony and litigation costs. The complainant had paid over ₹14.66 lakhs for a residential plot in Andhra Pradesh, expecting possession within 24 months. However, upon inspection, no development was found, and subsequent quality concerns raised via email were unaddressed, prompting a legal notice and ultimately the complaint. DLF contested jurisdiction, arguing the property was in Hyderabad, and attributed delays to the Telangana movement and statutory approvals. The Commission asserted jurisdiction given DLF's registered office in Delhi. Citing a Supreme Court precedent, it found DLF deficient in service for failing to deliver the plot within the agreed period. The Commission noted that the complainant had paid approximately 75% of the amount within 11 months, while possession was only offered in 2019, thus holding the developer responsible for the delay and for retaining the complainant's funds.