NCDRC Ruling: 'Non-Refundable' Retainer Clauses in Visa Consultancy Are Unconscionable and Void
Order Dated 12 October 2018Parties: Pioneer Institute of Management & Anr. v. Manpreet Singh
Forum & Citation: Revision Petition No. 1824 of 2017, National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC)
Factual Matrix: A student hired an overseas agency for Canadian study visa processing, paying ₹1,80,000 as guidance fees. The Canadian High Commission rejected the visa. When the student asked for a refund, the consultant refused. They cited a clause saying all fees were non-refundable.
Judicial Holding: The National Commission dismissed the agency's petition. It ruled that keeping 100% of fees when the primary service failed is an unfair trade practice. Unilateral no-refund clauses are oppressive and void under Section 23 of the Indian Contract Act. The NCDRC directed a refund after deducting only ₹10,000 in administrative charges.