In a unique case, a consumer in Chennai has won a dispute over a 50-paise coin and received an incredible 2,999,900% return. The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission ordered a local post office to refund the 50 paise, along with a fine of Rs 15,000 for their handling of the issue.
The dispute began on December 3 last year when Manasha, a resident of Gerugambakkam, went to the Polichalur post office to send a registered letter. The postal fee was Rs 29.50, and Manasha paid Rs 30, expecting to receive 50 paise as change. However, the post office informed him that their system automatically rounded the fee to Rs 30, meaning no change would be given.
Manasha, concerned about the fairness of this rounding system, tried to pay the exact amount of Rs 29.50 using UPI (a digital payment method), but the post office declined, citing a technical issue. Frustrated by the refusal and concerned about the implications of rounding off transactions, Manasha filed a complaint with the consumer commission. He argued that such practices could lead to financial losses, including the risk of black money circulation and reduced GST revenue for the government.
In response, the post office explained that their system was designed to round off amounts less than 50 paise, as they were generally “ignored.” They also stated that their “Pay U” QR code for UPI payments had not been working since November 2023 and was officially discontinued in May 2024.
After hearing both sides of the case, the commission ruled in Manasha’s favor. The post office’s software glitch, which caused overcharging by rounding up amounts, was deemed an unfair trade practice under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. The commission’s decision underlined the importance of consumer rights and reminded service providers of their duty to ensure fair and transparent transactions.
This case highlights the power of consumers in standing up for their rights, even in situations involving small amounts like 50 paise. Manasha’s persistence led to a significant victory, sending a strong message about the importance of accurate transactions and fair practices in all industries.
