In re Pavitra Rishta Match Making LLP (CCPA Delhi)
Summary: The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), exercising its statutory mandate under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, considered allegations concerning the fee structure adopted by Pavitra Rishta Match Making LLP for its matrimonial and matchmaking services. The proceedings originated from a complaint received from Shri Gagan Gandhi dated 31 March 2022.
The complaint alleged that the marriage bureau charged professional fees as a percentage of total marriage expenses, thereby potentially excluding persons without predetermined marriage budgets or those interested in court marriages. It was also alleged that there was insufficient clarity regarding the charges where actual marriage expenses were lower than estimated expenses, and that the fee model encouraged higher marriage expenditure and constituted an unfair trade practice.
During the preliminary inquiry, the CCPA noted that the Opposite Party’s website disclosed professional charges under its terms and conditions. These included 0.11% at registration, 1% towards mediation services in two instalments, 0.50% after the Roka ceremony and 0.50% ten days before the marriage ceremony. The charges were stated to be calculated on total marriage expenses, with GST separately chargeable. The preliminary inquiry raised concerns regarding the transparency of the methodology for determining total marriage expenses before identification or finalisation of a matrimonial match.
