Man repeatedly sent unsuitable matrimony profiles; commission orders Rs 37,000 relief

In a recent ruling, the Kollam District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Kerala has ordered a matrimonial services agency to pay Rs 37,000 in relief to a consumer. The agency, Intimate Matrimony, was found guilty of unfair trade practices after repeatedly sending unsuitable marriage profiles to a customer, despite promises of personalized assistance.

The consumer, Akhil Vinod, approached the agency after seeing an online advertisement for personalized matrimonial services. After installing the platform's application, representatives contacted him, and he informed them of his preference for voice calls through BOTIM and profile sharing through WhatsApp. The agency assured him that their Kollam branch would provide the services.

However, the complainant alleged that the agency made significant promises, such as active matchmaking and profiles suited to his preferences, in order to persuade him to upgrade to a higher priced plan costing Rs 7,000. The complainant also signed an agreement stating that an additional Rs 15,000 would be required if a marriage materialized through the agency.

Despite requesting alternatives and eventually stopping the provision of meaningful assistance, the agency continued to send unsuitable profiles. The commission held the agency guilty of deficiency in service and unfair trade practice, as they had failed to provide the personalized assistance promised in exchange for payment.