The Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission at Ernakulam has recently ruled in favor of a couple who had their travel package canceled due to the rejection of their VISA application. The Commission ordered travel booking company MakeMyTrip to refund the full amount paid for the package and compensate the couple for the mental agony and hardships they experienced.
The couple had planned to travel to Athens, Greece through a travel package organized by MakeMyTrip India Pvt. Ltd. The package, named ‘Best of Greece 2018 (without air)’, cost INR 1,44,879 and was to be paid in two installments. The couple had made the booking, paid both installments, and submitted their VISA application. However, their VISA application was rejected by the authorities due to unreliable information regarding the purpose and conditions of their stay. As a result, their trip was canceled and they sought a refund from MakeMyTrip.
MakeMyTrip argued that the company cannot be held personally liable and that the Ernakulam Consumer Forum does not have jurisdiction over the case. They also claimed that they were only a facilitator and cannot be held responsible for the rejection of the VISA application. However, the Commission observed that since the booking amount was paid through a bank in Ernakulam and a part of the cause of action arose within its jurisdiction, the complaint was maintainable. The Commission concluded that MakeMyTrip was at fault for the rejection of the VISA application due to the unreliable information provided.
Based on these findings, the Commission ordered MakeMyTrip to refund the entire amount paid for the travel package and VISA processing charges. In addition, they also awarded the couple INR 50,000 as compensation for the deficiency of service and INR 5,000 as litigation cost.
Overall, this ruling highlights the importance of providing accurate and reliable information when applying for a VISA and the accountability of travel booking companies in ensuring the quality of their services. It also emphasizes the role of Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions in protecting the rights of consumers and holding companies accountable for their actions.