Flipkart asked to pay a compensation of Rs 31,000 towards faulty delivery of mattress

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum directed Flipkart Internet Private Limited to pay a compensation of Rs 31,000 to a customer for deficient acts.

In November 2019, K. Ramesh, a resident of Tarnaka, Secunderabad, had purchased one Springtek 12 inch King Bonnell spring mattress for Rs 16,249. After the product got delivered on November 12, he opened the product the next day.

“I was shocked to notice that the opposite party delivered 'foam mattress' instead of Springtek spring mattress. I sent mails for replacement of mattress. Flipkart automatically cancelled my request,” said K. Ramesh.

Ramesh alleged that he sent several emails to Flipkart for return of the foam mattress. Flipkart promised him they will send the technician but no one visited.“I even approached the Consumer Grievance Cell but the response was not satisfactory,” said K Ramesh.

After that the complainant again contacted Flipkart. They sent a mail that they will replace the mattress. The order was expected to be delivered by January 2, 2020. Till today, the product was not delivered, even though several requests were made over the phone and several emails were sent by the complainant.

The complainant also alleged that Flipkart not only adopted unfair trade practice but that their service was deficient. The complainant said that he suffered physically, mentally and also financially due to the willful and intentional nonchalant behaviour of Flipkart.

Flipkart didn’t respond to the Forum too even after getting served notices.

After examining the evidence provided by K. Ramesh, the Forum said, “the complainant proved the case of deficiency in service. Flipkart deliberately avoided contesting the case despite having knowledge of it. In these circumstances, Flipkart is liable to refund and pay compensation to the complainant.”

It added that the complainant is entitled to a refund of Rs 16,249. The Forum also asked Flipkart to pay a compensation of Rs. 25,000 to the complainant for causing mental agony and hardship and Rs 6,000 as costs of litigation.

If it fails to pay the amount in 30 days, then Flipkart has to pay an interest of 12 per cent on the above amount per month till the date of realisation.