EUREKA FORBES Vs. DAMYANTI VOHRA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Appellant is a manufacturer of aqua guard water purifier. A scheme was launched for sale of the filters for life long free service at its service centres all over India. The respondent availed the said scheme and purchased a water filter for Rs. 7,250 on 31.3.1999, but after the ordinary warranty period of one year, the filter developed defect. The respondent wanted the mechanic of the appellant to provide service at his residence whereas the appellant insisted him for bringing the water filter at the service centre.

(2.) FEELING aggrieved, the respondent approached the District Forum and obtained an impugned order dated 24.10.2002 directing the appellant to provide the service at the place of installation of the water filter as and when the complaint is made and also pay Rs. 500 as cost of litigation and Rs. 500 as compensation for harassment of the complainant.

(3.) SO far as the first contention is concerned, we do not find any substance as it was under the scheme of life long free service that the product was sold and, therefore, to say that the appellant Company was not obliged to provide life long free service after the warranty period is false. Such schemes are floated in order to augment and promote the sale of the products and if promises are not kept the consumers feel duped and left high and dry.