Refund Rs 28.9 lakh to Budhlada resident, forum directs PUDA

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, February 17

The Punjab State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has ordered the Punjab Urban Planning and Development Authority (PUDA) to refund Rs 28.94 lakh to Bimpi Rani, a resident of Budhlada (Mansa), along with 12 per cent interest from the dates of deposits of various amounts. PUDA had failed to develop her plot as promised.

The commission has also directed PUDA to pay Rs 29,000 as compensation for mental agony and harassment suffered by the complainant.

Bimpi Rani got a 500 sq yards plot at the PUDA Enclave (Budhlada) after a draw of lot on January 15, 2013. The possession of the plot was to be delivered to the complainant after the completion of development works at the site or within 18 months from the date of issuance of the allotment letter. However, no development works were carried out at the site.

PUDA in its reply said the complainant does not fall under the definition of consumer as she purchased the plot for earning profits and not for self use. The commission has asked PUDA to make the payments within 30 days of the receipt of the copy of the order.