On a complaint filed by Consumer Education and Research Society (CERS), and Anju, daughter of G. N. Chhajer, Ahmedabad, the Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum, Ahmedabad City, held ‘Personal Point’, a well-known weight loss centre in the city, liable for deficiency in service. The Forum ordered ‘Personal Point’ to refund to Anju the fees of Rs. 10,490 with 6 per cent interest from 18 November 2002 till payment, Rs. 1,000 for mental agony and Rs. 1,000 as costs.

On going through newspaper advertisements published by ‘Personal Point’ on its courses in weight loss of 5 kg, tummy tuck and thigh fall, Anju had paid Rs.10,490, enrolled herself with the centre’s Maninagar branch and joined the course on 18 November 2002. Her weight then was 59.30 kg.

She later complained that despite assurance, there was no reduction in her weight or body fat even one month after the course. ‘Personal Point’ suggested that she continue with the course and she complied. But a little over three months later, she weighed more — 60.55 kg — on 26 February 2003, as per the record maintained by ‘Personal Point’. Even four months into the course did not bring about any change.

Frustrated by the increase in her weight, Anju approached CERS, which filed a complaint with the Forum under Section 2(1)(g)(o) of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986.

‘Personal Point’ attributed Anju’s “failure” in weight reduction to her violation of its instructions and her irregular eating habit.

The Forum, however, maintained that Anju herself was interested in reducing her weight before marriage and, therefore, it was not possible that she would not follow the instructions. Partly allowing the complaint, the Forum held ‘Personal Point’ liable and ordered the refund of fees to Anju with interest.

Mr. U. M. Raval presided over the Forum, with Mr. Bharatbhai H. Joshi as Member. Mr. H. P. Motiramani appeared for Anju and Mr. Bhagyodaya Mishra for ‘Personal Point’.

Date : 30/03/2006

Editor : Pritee Shah
INSIGHT — The Consumer Magazine
Place : Ahmedabad

Opinions, test results and research findings issued through this Press Release cannot be used in any form directly or indirectly for advertising, promotional or commercial purpose.

CONSUMER EDUCATION AND RESEARCH CENTRE
“Suraksha Sankool”, Thaltej, Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar Highway,
Ahmedabad-380 054 (INDIA)
Phone : 079 - 7489945-46, Fax : 079 - 7489947,
E-mail: cerc@cercindia.org, cercindia@gmail.com, Web Site: http://www.cercindia.org