New Delhi, May 22, 2026 – The National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) has reviewed a case where a complainant, Virendar Parkash, alleged deficiency in service by Punjab National Bank (PNB) for failing to credit a cheque and other issues related to his savings account operations. The case, initially filed before the District Commission in New Delhi, saw an ex parte judgment in favor of the complainant due to the bank’s non-appearance.
Background of the Dispute
The legal proceedings began when Mr. Parkash, represented by Advocate V.P. Sharma who also appeared in person, filed a consumer complaint (CC no. 205 of 2017) with the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (DCDRC), Forum 6, New Delhi. The core of the complaint centered on the bank’s alleged failure to credit a cheque into Mr. Parkash’s savings account.
In addition to the cheque crediting issue, the complainant raised further allegations concerning the overall operation and management of his savings bank account by PNB. These combined grievances formed the basis of his formal complaint seeking redressal.
District Commission’s Ex Parte Ruling
Crucially, Punjab National Bank did not present itself or file a response before the District Commission. This failure to appear led the DCDRC to proceed with the case on an ex parte basis, meaning the proceedings continued without the bank’s participation or defense.
Consequently, the District Commission allowed the complaint. While the order indicates relief was granted to Mr. Parkash, the specific details of the relief and the full observations of the District Commission in its ex parte judgment were not detailed in the provided order summary, pending further review by the higher commission.
NCDRC Review and Potential Implications
The matter has now been brought before the Hon’ble Mr Justice A.P. Sahi, President, and Hon’ble Mr Bharatkumar Pandya, Member, of the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission. The NCDRC’s involvement suggests a review or appeal of the District Commission’s ex parte order.
This case highlights the critical importance for financial institutions to actively participate in legal proceedings, especially consumer complaints. Non-appearance before a consumer forum can result in an adverse judgment without the institution having had the opportunity to present its side of the story.
For consumers, this case underscores the effectiveness of the consumer protection framework in addressing grievances against banks. It also serves as a reminder that detailed documentation and timely filing of complaints are essential steps in seeking resolution.
What to Watch Next
The NCDRC’s final decision will be keenly watched. It will determine whether the ex parte order of the District Commission is upheld, modified, or set aside. The proceedings will likely shed more light on the specific findings regarding the bank’s alleged deficiency in service concerning the cheque crediting and account operations. The outcome could set a precedent for similar cases involving bank service deficiencies and the consequences of non-compliance with consumer forum notices.
