IRCTC to refund ₹3,100 over ₹1 shortfall:Kerala consumer court orders 9% interest; case dates back two years

IRCTC has been ordered to refund ₹1 to a passenger after deducting ₹1 too much when cancelling a train ticket. The Kasaragod District Consumer Commission also directed IRCTC to pay ₹3,100 in compensation and litigation costs. The commission also imposed 9% interest on the ₹1. It directed IRCTC to pay ₹100 in compensation for deficiency in service and unfair trade practices. In addition, it ordered IRCTC to pay ₹3,000 towards litigation costs. IRCTC will have to make the payment within 30 days. Two-year-old case The complainant booked an AC three-tier train ticket for ₹553 on 11 August 2024. The journey was scheduled for 20 August 2024. The complainant cancelled the ticket on 17 August. This was done more than 48 hours before the scheduled travel date. IRCTC deducted ₹180 as a cancellation charge. It also deducted ₹9 as 5% GST. The commission recorded that the passenger should have received a refund of ₹341. However, IRCTC refunded only ₹340, leaving a shortfall of ₹1. Passenger sought compensation of ₹2.05 lakh The complainant sought ₹1 lakh in compensation for the confusion. He also demanded ₹1 lakh for the breach of trust. In addition, he sought ₹5,000 towards litigation costs and the return of the outstanding ₹1. IRCTC had presented its case before the commission. However, the commission deemed it to have been filed after the deadline and dismissed it. What the commission said: 9% interest must be paid on ₹1 The commission said that IRCTC had not given any reason for deducting ₹1 or refunding less. Failing to refund the correct amount constitutes a deficiency in service and an unfair trade practice. The order was issued by commission president Krishnan K and member Beena KG. The order said that the complaint was partly allowed. According to the order, IRCTC must pay interest at 9% on ₹1 from 17 August 2024, the date the ticket was cancelled, until the payment is made. The commission awarded ₹100 in compensation for the deficiency in service and unfair trade practice. Litigation costs were set at ₹3,000. Message for consumers A shortfall of even ₹1 in a refund may be considered a deficiency in service. Service providers must refund customers the full and correct amount. For consumer complaints, people can contact the consumer helpline of their state or Union territory. The National Consumer Helpline can be reached at 1915. ​