Dharwad: In a recent development, Prakalpa Motors in Vidyanagar has taken decisive action in response to a consumer grievance. The dispute arose after Usha Jain, a resident of Shinde Complex in Hubballi, purchased a TVS iCube electric vehicle for Rs. 1,25,000 on 18/06/2021. However, just six months after the purchase, the vehicle experienced recurring brake issues and developed a fault.
Usha Jain, the complainant, diligently brought the vehicle to Prakalpa Motors for repairs. Despite multiple attempts to fix the problem, wherein various components were replaced five to six times, the repairs were not successful. Worse still, during one instance of operating the vehicle after these attempted fixes, Usha Jain suffered an electric shock due to unresolved issues with the vehicle.
Frustrated by the lack of progress, Usha Jain approached both Prakalpa Motors and TVS Company, urging them to either replace the faulty vehicle or refund the entire purchase amount. Unfortunately, this plea was denied by the concerned parties. Subsequently, on 09/02/2023, Usha Jain lodged a formal complaint with the Dharwad District Consumer Commission, citing a deficiency in service under the Consumer Protection Act.
The Commission, under the leadership of Chairman Eeshappa, conducted a thorough investigation into the complaint. During the inquiry, members Vishalakshi A. Bolashetty and Prabhu C. Hiremath determined that Usha Jain had indeed faced issues with the electric vehicle within the first six months of purchase. Despite reporting these problems, the company failed to take adequate corrective measures, leading to the unexpected electric current issue during operation post-repairs.
The court has issued a verdict, instructing all the respondents to replace the complainant’s iCube electric vehicle with a new one within one month from the date of the judgment. In case the opposite party fails to provide the new vehicle within the specified timeframe, they will be liable to pay the complainant Rs. 1,25,000 along with an 8% interest rate, starting from 09/02/2023.
Additionally, the Commission has mandated that the respondents compensate the complainant with Rs. 25,000 for the inconvenience and mental distress caused, as well as cover the legal expenses incurred during the case, amounting to Rs. 10,000.
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