Four defendants—two individuals and two corporations—were convicted of multiple offences under the Consumer Protection Act, 2002 for failing to provide proper direct agreements, engaging in unfair practices through false representations, and failing to provide refunds to consumers.
The prosecution sought custodial sentences for the individuals and substantial fines for the corporations.
The court rejected custodial sentences, finding that while the conduct was blameworthy, it did not rise to the level of intentional fraud seen in comparable cases where contractors absconded with deposits or provided no work.
Instead, the court imposed significant fines, probation with restitution conditions, and additional restrictions on the primary offender.
