Malappuram District Commission Holds Ola Liable For Failure To Deliver E-Scooter After Receiving Full Payment

In a recent case titled Shafeek Paravath vs Ola Electric Technologies Pvt Ltd and Anr., the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Malappuram, held Ola and its dealer accountable for deficient service. The complainant paid Rs. 1,45,777 to Ola for booking an electric scooter, with a promised delivery date of April 18th, 2023. Despite multiple attempts, Ola failed to deliver the scooter, prompting the complainant to cancel the booking and file a consumer complaint. Ola argued that the delivery timeline was indicative and not binding, citing terms and conditions, and claimed to have refunded the amount post-complaint. \r

However, the Commission found this delay in refund indicative of deficient service causing mental distress. It rejected Ola's contention on delivery timelines and emphasized the concurrent nature of delivery and payment obligations unless agreed otherwise. Consequently, the Commission ordered Ola and its dealer to pay Rs. 50,000 as compensation for mental agony and inconvenience, along with Rs. 5,000 for litigation costs. Additional expenses for purchasing another scooter weren't awarded due to insufficient evidence.