Srinagar: The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Baramulla held the Horticulture Department and a private firm accountable for inflicting financial loss and distress upon two farmers from Sopore.
The commission directed them to pay compensation amounting to nearly four lakh rupees to the affected duo.
The commission’s ruling stemmed from a complaint filed on April 26, 2023, by the farmers, seeking redressal for an excessive amount extracted by the firm, along with additional interest, under a modified High-Density Plantation scheme. The farmers alleged that despite payment, the promised plantation was not carried out, leading to significant financial losses and mental anguish.
According to the complaint, the farmers, residents of Saripara Buddan in Baramulla, engaged with the firm, M/S H.N. Agri serve Pvt. Ltd., under the scheme. However, the agreed-upon plantation didn’t materialize as per the terms, resulting in a delay of nine months. Moreover, the firm charged an exorbitant amount, causing further financial strain.
Witnesses testified in favor of the farmers, corroborating their claims of undue delays and financial exploitation. The commission, after scrutinizing the records and testimonies, concluded that the firm’s actions constituted unfair trade practices and a deficiency in service, as per the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
In its verdict, the commission directed the firm to refund the excess amount of Rs. 1,66,301/- and pay Rs. 2,00,000/- jointly and severally to the farmers as compensation for the losses incurred and mental distress suffered. Failure to comply within six weeks would attract an additional 8% interest on the owed amount.
Furthermore, the commission ordered the firm to reimburse litigation charges amounting to Rs. 20,000/- to the farmers.
