Patna Restaurant Faces Penalty for Automatically Adding Service Charge to Bills

A restaurant in Patna, Bihar, has been fined Rs 30,000 by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) for automatically levying a service charge on customer bills. This action was taken in response to a growing concern among consumers about mandatory service charges imposed by restaurants, even though customers are not obligated to pay them.

The CCPA has been actively addressing the issue of unwarranted service charges, reinforcing the guidelines that clearly state that service charges are voluntary, and restaurants cannot force consumers to pay them. Customers have the discretion to tip, based on their satisfaction with the service.

The imposition of the fine on the Patna-based restaurant serves as a stern warning to other establishments that may be engaging in similar practices. It underscores the CCPA's commitment to protecting consumer rights and ensuring fair trade practices in the hospitality sector.

Consumers are encouraged to be vigilant and aware of their rights. If a restaurant adds a service charge to the bill without their consent, they have the right to object and request its removal. They can also file a complaint with the CCPA or other consumer protection agencies to seek redress.

This incident follows a previous case in Bihar where a restaurant was fined for failing to serve sambar with masala dosa. In that instance, a local court ordered a restaurant owner to pay Rs 3,500 for not providing sambar with a special masala dosa ordered by a lawyer. The consumer, Manish Pathak, had to pursue legal action after the restaurant management responded inappropriately to his complaint about the missing sambar. The court ruled in favor of Pathak, emphasizing the importance of upholding consumer rights and ensuring businesses deliver on their promised services.

These cases highlight the increasing awareness and enforcement of consumer protection laws in Bihar, sending a clear message to businesses that they must adhere to fair practices and respect consumer rights. The CCPA's recent action against the Patna restaurant reinforces this message, ensuring that restaurants do not exploit consumers by imposing mandatory and unjustified service charges.