Charging Convenience Fee For Booking Online Movie Tickets Is Lawful: Andhra Pradesh State Commission Allows Big Tree Entertainment's Appeal

The State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Andhra Pradesh presided by Smt. C. V. S. Bhaskaram (Woman Member) and Sri B. Srinivasa Rao (Judicial Member) held that the charging of convenience fee while booking online movie tickets is completely lawful. Further, the commission allowed the appeal of Big Tree Entertainment Private Limited as there was no deficiency in service on their part. Brief facts: The complainant purchased movie tickets for the film Vakeel Saab on 10.04.2021 through the online platform of Big Tree Entertainment Private Limited (Appellant). Subsequently, the complainant also paid additional fees of Rs.65.84 as online charges. Later, the complainant alleged that the extra charge levied by the appellant was unjustified. Aggrieved, the complainant filed a complaint in the District Commission for deficiency in service on part of the appellant. In reply, the appellant argued that they have followed all the rules and regulation for conducting business. Consequently, the additional fee charged on the customers for a service provided is not illegal. Through an order dated 31.03.2023, the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Guntur held the appellant liable for deficiency in service and directed them to refund Rs.65.84, along with Rs.5,000/- towards mental agony and Rs.2,000/- as litigation cost. Contentions of the Appellant: The appellant submitted that the complainant had an option to book tickets physically but he booked it online for convenience. The complainant wanted to avoid hassle of standing in long queues outside the ticket counter and the additional fee was charged for the service provided. Additionally, there was no compulsion on the complainant to book tickets from the appellant's platform and he could opt for other modes. The appellant was transparent and clear about the extra charges levied and the complainant was aware of this. Observation of the State Commission: The Commission observed the online booking procedure and concluded that the complainant was aware of the extra charges and he voluntarily opted for the appellant's platform. Further, it was noted that convenience fee was paid for rendering service by the appellant. Therefore, the State Commission held that there was no deficiency in service on part of the appellant as the additional fee was lawfully charged. Thus, the Commission set aside the decision of the District Commission and the appeal was allowed. Case title: Big Tree Entertainment Private Limited vs Mr. Madhira Mahendra Naga Sairam Case No: F.A.No.305 of 2023 Date of Pronouncement: 02.12.2024Click Here To Read/Download The Order

Charging Convenience Fee For Booking Online Movie Tickets Is Lawful: Andhra Pradesh State Commission Allows Big Tree Entertainment's Appeal

Amrisha Kumari

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