30/06/2026
The Case of the ₹20 Overcharge
A lawyer named Devesh Gautam from Aligarh, UP, bought a cigarette pack with an MRP of ₹340.
The shopkeeper charged him ₹360.
Instead of ignoring the extra ₹20, he paid via UPI to secure proof, saved the digital receipt, and sued the shopkeeper in consumer court.
The Court ruled that charging above the MRP constituted an unfair trade practice.
The Judgment :
➡️ ₹10 Lakh Penalty: Imposed jointly on the shopkeeper and manufacturer.
➡️ ₹5,000 Compensation: Awarded to the consumer for mental agony.
➡️ ₹5,000 Legal Costs: Awarded to cover litigation expenses.
➡️ ₹20 Refund: Returned with 18% interest.
The Takeaway: Sometimes, it is not about the ₹20. It is about knowing and standing up for your rights.