IndiaI was charged for services not rendered. What remedies are available?
You can file a consumer complaint under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 for refund and compensation; or initiate criminal proceedings under Section 420 IPC for cheating if there was intentional deception.
What the Law Says
Indian law provides multiple remedies when you're charged for services never delivered — primarily through consumer rights law and criminal law.
Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, you are a 'consumer' if you hired or paid for a service for personal use (not resale or commercial purpose). Charging for unrendered services is considered a 'deficiency in service', entitling you to refund, compensation for loss, and even punitive damages.
The Act empowers Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions at district, state, and national levels. You may file a complaint within two years of the cause of action — though extensions are possible with sufficient reason.
Separately, if the service provider knowingly took payment without intending to deliver the service, it may amount to cheating under Section 420 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 — a cognizable, non-bailable offence punishable with up to seven years’ imprisonment.
Statutory Text‘Deficiency in service’ means any fault, imperfection, shortcoming or inadequacy in the quality, nature and manner of performance which is required to be maintained by or under any law for the time being in force…
— Consumer Protection Act, 2019, s. 2(7) — Definition of deficiency in service
Statutory TextWhoever cheats and thereby dishonestly induces the person deceived to deliver any property to any person… shall be punished with imprisonment… up to seven years…
— Indian Penal Code, 1860, s. 420 — Cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property
What to Do
Gather proof: payment receipts, SMS/email confirmations, contracts, and communication showing no service was rendered.
Send a written notice to the service provider demanding refund within 15 days (recommended before filing complaint).
File a consumer complaint online via https://consumerhelpline.gov.in or physically at your District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission.
If fraud appears intentional (e.g., fake website, vanished provider), file an FIR under IPC Section 420 at your local police station.
For claims above ₹1 crore, approach the State Commission; above ₹10 crores, the National Commission.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.