Karachi consumer court has imposed a hefty fine on an online clothing store for delivering substandard products and engaging in misleading business practices.
Uzma Saeed, the complainant, purchased unstitched clothing items worth Rs43,000 from the online store, Ms Farkhand. Upon receiving the order, she was dismayed to find the quality far inferior to what was advertised. Despite repeated attempts to seek a refund or return, the store refused to cooperate.
The consumer court, after a thorough examination of the case and considering the store’s failure to appear in court, issued a verdict in favor of the complainant. The court imposed a fine of over Rs100,000 on the online store, which includes compensation for the purchased goods, a penalty for misleading customers, and legal costs.
The court also issued strict directives to the online store, mandating the clear display of refund and return policies, along with accurate product descriptions on their website and social media platforms. To ensure compliance, the court ordered Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to block the store’s website and Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to restrict its social media presence until the store meets the stipulated guidelines.
This judgment sets a significant precedent for online businesses operating in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for transparency, accountability, and adherence to consumer protection laws. It serves as a strong deterrent against businesses that engage in deceptive practices and highlights the importance of consumer rights.
