In a notable consumer rights case, a fueling mishap at an Indian Oil Corporation station in Warangal, Telangana, resulted in a significant financial settlement. The incident, which occurred on July 30, 2022, involved the incorrect fueling of a woman’s petrol car with diesel, leading to severe mechanical issues and a prolonged legal struggle.
Meenakshi Naidu, the vehicle owner, faced immediate problems after the fueling error. Within minutes of leaving the station, her car began to malfunction, producing loud noises from the engine and failing to operate correctly. This prompted an urgent trip to an authorized repair center in Hyderabad, where technicians confirmed the damage was due to diesel being mistakenly pumped into her petrol vehicle. The repair costs were estimated at ₹6,381.
After discovering the error, Ms. Naidu lodged a formal complaint against the fuel station operator, claiming that despite clear petrol-only markings on her fuel tank, diesel was dispensed. In her defense, the station argued that any issues should have been immediately reported.
The matter escalated to the District Consumer Court, where after two years of hearings, the court ruled in favor of Ms. Naidu. Recognizing the gravity of the operator’s negligence, the court ordered Indian Oil Corporation to pay ₹26,000 in damages to the complainant.
