Malappuram District Commission Holds Amazon And Its Seller Liable For Failure To Issue Promised Refund For Unsatisfactory Product

In a recent ruling, the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Malappuram found Amazon and Appario Retail liable for failing to issue a refund to a customer who returned an unsatisfactory sound bar. The complainant had ordered the product through Amazon but faced sound quality issues upon installation, prompting a return. Despite assurances, the refund was delayed, leading to a complaint. Amazon argued it was an intermediary not directly responsible for refunds, but the commission noted their acknowledgment of the refund request as indicative of involvement. Consequently, the commission ordered Amazon and the seller to refund Rs. 18,999, pay Rs. 15,000 as compensation, and Rs. 2,000 towards litigation costs (Case Title: Bineesh A vs Amazon India Pvt. Ltd. and Anr., Case Number: CC/493/2023, Pronouncement Date: 29th April 2024).