The Standard Chartered Bank and its assignee, Shaha Finlease, have been instructed to pay compensation to a businessman for their failure to update his CIBIL score after the closure of his credit card account. The Additional Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission of Bengaluru has also directed the two companies to pay a litigation cost.
Background
The complainant, VV Venkatesh Babu, surrendered his credit card in 2010. However, the bank allegedly continued to harass him for different rental charges. Venkatesh Babu offered to close the account upon payment of a specific amount towards full and final settlement.
Non-updated CIBIL Record
Despite the payment and confirmation of no outstanding dues, the bank failed to update Venkatesh’s CIBIL record. Instead, the record was transferred to Shaha Finlease, who demanded an additional sum to issue a no-dues certificate and update the CIBIL record.
Consumer Court Case
Venkatesh filed a complaint with the consumer court seeking compensatory damages for the faulty services provided. The bank did not appear in the case, while Shaha Finlease argued that the complaint was time-barred.
After considering the arguments and evidence, the quorum of the Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission found in favor of Venkatesh. The assignee had released legal notices to Venkatesh, stating a large due amount outstanding in his name. Additionally, Shaha Finlease demanded a specific amount to clear his name from the CIBIL records.
Conclusion
Advocate Abhishek MR represented Venkatesh in the case, while advocate Santhosh Kumar MB represented Shaha Finlease.
In conclusion, the Standard Chartered Bank and Shaha Finlease have been ordered to compensate the businessman for their failure to update his CIBIL score. The court also directed them to pay a litigation cost.