In an unusual case, a hotel guest who extended his stay for months without clearing bills has been directed by a city court to pay ₹15.8 lakh along with interest.

Prolonged stay turns into legal battle

The incident began on March 27, 2025, when Mohamad Rafeeque Pallivalappil, a 65-year-old businessman from Kurnool, checked into Radisson Blu Atria for a short stay.

Initially charged ₹5,737.5 per day plus GST, his stay was later upgraded to a suite on August 6, 2025, at his request. The revised tariff was communicated through calls and messages, and he continued to occupy the suite.

Dues mount despite reminders

Although the guest initially paid ₹80,000, he gradually became irregular in clearing dues. Despite repeated reminders from hotel management, he neither vacated the premises nor paid the outstanding amount.

By October 8, 2025, the bill had escalated to ₹12.9 lakh. Payments totalling ₹3.2 lakh were made, leaving a balance of approximately ₹9.7 lakh.

Legal notice and bounced cheque

After issuing a legal notice on October 24, 2025, the guest admitted liability and issued a cheque of ₹10 lakh. However, the cheque was dishonoured due to insufficient funds.

Despite this, he continued to occupy the suite, leaving the hotel with no option but to approach the court.

Court steps in, orders payment

The hotel filed a civil suit in December 2025. As the defendant failed to appear in court or submit a defence, the case proceeded ex parte.

After reviewing invoices, legal notices, and the bounced cheque, the court concluded that the claims were valid. On March 13, Judge Jithendranath CS ordered the defendant to pay ₹15.8 lakh with 18% annual interest from November 17, 2025, until full payment.

The court also directed him to pay damages of ₹15,750 per day plus GST for the extended stay period.

Possession recovered

A bailiff was appointed to take possession of the suite. The guest’s belongings, valued at around ₹5,000, were inventoried and handed over, making eviction proceedings unnecessary.

Case highlights accountability

The case underscores the importance of accountability in commercial agreements and the legal recourse available to businesses facing financial defaults.