Complaint Against Overcharging of Packaged Drinking Water at The Plaza, Paryatak Bhavan, Begumpet

S

swapna

New member
Hotel Name
The plaza
Website Name
https://www.hyderabadtourism.travel/the-plaza-hotel-begumpet-hyderabad
Customer Care Number
bill no: 1426
Loss Amount
35
Ratings
1.00 star(s)
Opposite Party Address
The Plaza, Paryatak Bhavan, Beside CM camp office Begumpet
Subject: Complaint against overcharging of packaged drinking water at The Plaza, Partatak Bhavan, Begumpet.

Respected Sir/Madam,


I, K. Swapna, resident of Ameerpet, wish to file a formal complaint against The Plaza restaurant, located at Paryatak Bhavan, near CM Camp Office, Begumpet, Hyderabad.
On 30/04/2025, I visited the said restaurant and ordered a packaged drinking water bottle. To my surprise, I was charged ₹55 for the bottle, despite the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) clearly labeled as ₹20.
When I pointed out the discrepancy and informed the staff that overcharging for bottled water is against the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, I was met with disrespectful and reckless behavior. The staff insisted that they always charge that amount and demanded I pay the money in a rude and unprofessional manner.
This incident not only violates consumer rights but also breaches the law regarding fair pricing of packaged commodities.

I kindly request the Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission to:
  1. Take necessary action against The Plaza for unfair trade practices and overcharging.
  2. Impose appropriate penalties to prevent such occurrences in the future.
I have attached a copy of the bill for your reference.

I am hopeful that you will address this matter urgently.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
K Swapna









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Hello @swapna

In India, restaurants can charge more than the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) for bottled items like water, soft drinks, or packaged snacks — but only under certain conditions.

Here's a breakdown of the legal position:​


✅ When it’s Allowed:​

  • If the item is served as part of a service (e.g., in a restaurant, hotel, or cinema hall), the establishment can charge more than the MRP.
  • This is because it’s considered a service, not a retail sale — you're paying for ambience, seating, service, etc.

❌ When it’s Not Allowed:​

  • If you're buying the item from a retail shop, takeaway counter, or standalone kiosk without any service attached, they must charge only MRP or less.
  • Overcharging MRP in these scenarios can be penalized under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009.

⚖️ Supreme Court Ruling:​

  • In 2017, the Supreme Court of India ruled that charging above MRP is not illegal when it's part of a composite service, such as dining in a restaurant.

Summary:​

  • Dine-in at a restaurant: Charging above MRP is allowed.
  • Buying from a shop/kiosk/takeaway: Charging above MRP is not allowed.

Thanks
 
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