A private hostel in Greater Noida failed to deliver promised amenities, prompting a B.Tech student to vacate within a week and secure a ₹40,000 refund and compensation from the Himachal Pradesh Consumer Commission.

Key Takeaways

  • The hostel collected a ₹35,000 advance but did not provide basic amenities.
  • The student left after 7 days and was awarded a total of ₹40,000 in refund and compensation.
  • The consumer commission warned private hostels against retaining advance fees without delivering promised services.

The Kangra District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission of Himachal Pradesh ordered Nalanda Living Hostel in Greater Noida to refund ₹30,000 with 9% interest and pay an additional ₹10,000 as compensation after a B.Tech student complained of sub‑standard food, lack of maintenance and no Wi‑Fi.

Background of the Complaint

Aryan Rawat secured admission to the B.Tech programme at IILM University, Greater Noida, on 17 August 2023. The same day he booked a room at Nalanda Living Hostel, paying an advance of ₹35,000 for an air‑conditioned room that was advertised with quality meals, uninterrupted Wi‑Fi and regular upkeep.

Issues Faced Within Days

Within a few days of moving in, Rawat reported that the meals were below standard, the premises were poorly maintained, and the promised Wi‑Fi never became active despite repeated requests for the password. Feeling harassed, he informed the hostel manager on 23 August 2023 that he wished to vacate.

Legal Proceedings

The hostel manager assured a partial refund after deducting a week’s stay, but no money was returned despite numerous follow‑ups. Consequently, Rawat approached the consumer commission. The commission noted that the hostel failed to appear even after notices were served, leading to an ex‑parte decision. The evidence, including payment receipts and correspondence, remained unchallenged.

Commission’s Findings and Orders

The commission concluded that accepting a substantial advance while failing to deliver essential promised amenities constituted “deficiency of service” under the Consumer Protection Act. It deemed a deduction of ₹5,000 for the week’s accommodation reasonable and ordered the remaining ₹30,000 to be refunded, along with 9% interest and ₹10,000 for inconvenience and harassment.

Implications for Students and Parents

This ruling underscores that private hostels cannot retain large advance fees when they do not honor promised services. Maintaining receipts, written agreements, and a record of complaints strengthens a consumer’s case. Affected parties can approach state consumer helplines (Himachal Pradesh: 1800‑180‑8087) or the national helpline 1915 for rapid redress.