Kerala Woman Wins Rs 36,880 in Instagram Dress Dispute

In a significant ruling, a Kerala district consumer commission has ordered an Instagram-based boutique to pay Rs 36,880 in compensation to a customer. The dispute arose when the boutique accepted full payment for two wedding dresses but failed to deliver one of them. The commission, in its order dated July 17, 2026, asserted that businesses conducting sales via social media are fully accountable under consumer protection laws. The complainant had ordered two dresses in February 2025, paying Rs 3,760, with delivery expected by April 2025. The boutique faced delays, eventually delivering only one dress on May 14, 2025. Subsequent communication attempts by the customer were met with poor responses and rudeness. The boutique also failed to refund the money for the undelivered dress as promised, leading the customer to purchase alternative dresses at a higher cost. The commission found the boutique's actions to be a deficiency in service and an unfair trade practice. It ordered the boutique to refund the cost of the undelivered dress (Rs 1,880), along with Rs 25,000 for the inconvenience caused and Rs 10,000 for legal costs. The total payment of Rs 36,880 is due within 45 days, with a 9% annual interest applied if payment is delayed.