News
The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has ordered Ola to implement certain changes on its ride-hailing platform. This includes offering refund options and providing receipts for Auto rides.
Currently, Ola, as part of its no-questions-asked refund policy, only offers coupon codes for future rides. The company has now been directed to allow customers to select their preferred refund method, which could either be a direct refund to their bank account or a coupon.
The CCPA has also said that Ola must provide customers with a bill, receipt, or invoice for all Auto rides booked through its platform.
According to the CCPA, it has received 2,061 complaints against Ola, alleging overcharging and refund delays, between January and October 2024. In a statement, the consumer watchdog said, “The no-question-asked refund policy cannot mean that the company incentivises people to simply use this facility for taking another ride." The CCPA also deemed failing to provide a receipt for Auto rides as an "unfair trade practice" under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
Following the order, Ola has implemented certain changes to its platform. The company’s website now clearly mentions the contact details of grievance and nodal officers. Cancellation policies and fees are displayed at the time of booking for more transparency, while also providing fare component breakdowns.
Besides other changes, Ola has also introduced revised payment cycles for drivers for swift payment.
Source: Moneycontrol