Ola Electric Mobility Limited has been issued the third notice from the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA). This notice is regarding seeking additional information to investigate consumer complaints. Ola Electric said that it received this notice through email on January 10, 2025.
Why was the third notice issued?
- The CCPA issued this notice as part of an investigation into 10,466 consumer complaints. These complaints were lodged on the National Consumer Helpline between July 2023 and August 2024.
- The CCPA’s initial investigation found that:
- Consumer rights were violated.
- The company’s advertisements were misleading.
- There were flaws in the service.
- After this, CCPA directed its Director General of Investigation to conduct a detailed investigation under Section 19(1) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
Previous notice and High Court decision
- CCPA had earlier issued notices to Ola Electric in October and December 2024.
- Ola Electric had challenged these notices in the Karnataka High Court.
- High Court’s decision:
- The court rejected the company’s petition.
- Justice R. Devdas said that the notice has been issued by the competent authority.
- Ola Electric is bound to submit the requested documents and records.
Main points on the court’s statement
- The post of CCPA officer is of Senior Director rank.
- This officer is legally authorized by the Director General to investigate.
- Ola’s argument that the officer was not authorized was rejected.
- The court said that it is within the jurisdiction of the investigating officer to ask for information for investigation at this stage.
Pressure of consumer complaints on Ola Electric
- 10,466 complaints were registered on the consumer helpline.
- Among the complaints:
- Problems related to product quality.
- misleading advertising.
- Service support included glitches.
Effect of notice and next steps
- CCPA has asked the company for detailed information on consumer complaints and necessary documents for investigation.
- Ola Electric will have to cooperate in the investigation process and provide the requested information.
