Cigarette Seller Fined Rs 10 Lakh for Overcharging

The Aligarh district consumer commission has levied a significant penalty, ordering a cigarette manufacturer and a local retailer to deposit Rs 10 lakh into the consumer welfare fund. This action was taken following a complaint that a customer was overcharged by Rs 20 on a packet of Classic brand cigarettes. The complainant purchased the cigarettes on January 29, 2026, paying Rs 360 for a packet marked with a maximum retail price (MRP) of Rs 340.

The commission found sufficient evidence, including online payment records and a photograph of the cigarette packet, to support the complainant's claim. Despite the manufacturer's denial of direct dealings with the seller, the bench concluded that the retailer acted as an agent or sub-agent for the company. This established a link, making the manufacturer responsible for the retailer's actions, including the act of selling above the printed MRP, which was deemed an unfair trade practice.

In addition to the Rs 10 lakh deposit, the manufacturer and retailer were directed to refund the Rs 20 overcharge with 18 percent annual interest, pay Rs 5,000 in compensation, and cover Rs 5,000 in litigation costs to the complainant. Both parties have been given 45 days to comply with the order, with a stern warning of potential prosecution for non-compliance.