Are you still paying the service charge on your food bill at restaurants? If so, then you definitely need to give this article a look. In a recent update on the ongoing ‘service charge’ row, the Center and the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) informed the Delhi High Court that hotels and restaurants are still is charging a fee for the service, even after receiving instructions about the prohibition. The center adds that customers are not willing to pay extra fees, even if they are not satisfied with the service.
“It has been found that restaurants and hotels have openly followed the guidelines and collected service fees from consumers involuntarily, even if they are not satisfied with the service,” the app reads. . It also added that after the July guidance was issued, consumers registered an additional 1105 complaints on the National Consumer Helpline about hotels and restaurants charging service fees. unfair.
Also read: Restaurant service fees: All you need to know about the ongoing debate
During the hearing on the matter, the Delhi High Court issued further guidance on the ban, making it easier for both customers and restaurant owners to follow. Some of the conditions set by Delhi High Court are as follows:
- Restaurants must prominently display fee-for-service components in food prices.
- The restaurant will not charge a service fee for takeout/delivery.
- The lawyer also said that there have been many complaints about restaurants restricting consumers from paying service fees. “It’s a matter of choice. Don’t enter the restaurant if you don’t want to pay,” the Supreme Court stated.
Previously, these guidelines were challenged by the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI). “These petitions have been fixed for November 25, 2022,” a PTI report reads.
