Malappuram auto driver to receive Rs 1 lakh as compensation for faulty electric auto

Kalikavu (Malappuram): A two-year legal battle has come to a successful end for Nanban Shamsuddin, an auto driver from Kalikavu. The Kerala State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has directed Kerala Automobiles Limited, a state-owned company, to make his malfunctioning electric auto-rickshaw operational. In addition, the company has been ordered to pay Rs 1 lakh in compensation and Rs 25,000 towards litigation expenses.

In 2022, Shamsuddin purchased an electric auto-rickshaw from Kerala Automobiles Limited, based in Shoranur. However, within just two weeks, the vehicle stalled while on the road. Although the company initially fixed the issue, the auto soon broke down again due to a faulty battery that could not hold a charge. The cost of replacing the battery was estimated at around Rs 1 lakh. The lack of service centres in the district further complicated the situation, leading to frequent breakdowns and delays in repairs.

When the company refused to replace the defective battery, Shamsuddin approached the district consumer dispute resolution forum. The forum ruled in his favour, instructing that the auto-rickshaw, currently parked at Shamsuddin's residence, be collected, repaired, and returned to him within 60 days. The vehicle must also be certified as operational by an automobile engineer. The commission awarded Shamsuddin Rs 1 lakh in compensation for the two years he was unable to drive the vehicle, in addition to Rs 25,000 for legal costs.

Furthermore, the order stipulates that if the auto-rickshaw's issues are not resolved, Shamsuddin should be reimbursed Rs 3,12,000, the original cost of the vehicle. A nine percent interest rate will apply in case of any delay in the repayment.