CHENNAI TELEPHONES (GENERAL MANAGER) vs R.K. TILAK SAMUEL

MR. Thiru A. Raman, President-It is no doubt true that the complainant did not pay the bill dated 1.3.1997 which was for Rs. 2,250. The pay-by date was 21.3.1997. But, the amount was paid only on 4.4.1997. Therefore, for non-payment, the connection was disrupted. Thereafter, the complainant paid the amount due with reconnection charges. But the reconnection was not effected immediately but it took more than two months for them to give reconnection. The opposite parties would contend that there was some technical problem in the switch-room and, therefore, the telephone could not be reconnected immediately.

THE Lower Forum held that the delay of two months in granting reconnection amounts to deficiency in service, more so, in the absence of any valid defence from the opposite parties. Sitting in appeal as we do, we do not find any error in appreciation by the Lower Forum.

Now, coming to compensation, the Lower Forum has directed a compensation of Rs. 5,000. The complainant has not established how and in what manner, he was put to any loss. Therefore, in the circumstances, we are of the view that the grant of Rs. 3,000 as compensation with cost of Rs. 500 would be adequate.

IN the result, the appeal is allowed in part; the order of the Lower Forum is modified. There will be a direction to the appellants/opposite parties to pay to the complainant a sum of Rs. 3,000 as compensation along with a cost of Rs. 500. Time for payment : Two months. Appeal partly allowed.