The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Chandigarh has instructed the Punjab government officials to disburse the outstanding medical reimbursement of ₹2.90 lakh, along with an additional compensation of ₹20,000, to a retired deputy district attorney who received treatment for prostate cancer.

The commission partially upheld the complaint submitted by Ajaib Singh, a resident of Sangrur, who reported inadequate service after only a portion of his medical expenses was reimbursed.

Singh revealed that he was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2018 and received treatment at Fortis Hospital in Mohali, resulting in expenses totaling ₹4.01 lakh. Despite providing all necessary bills and documentation, he was granted only ₹1.11 lakh as reimbursement in January 2021.

In defense, the Director of Prosecution and Litigation and the Additional Secretary of the Punjab government argued that the reimbursement was issued in accordance with the Punjab Services (Medical Attendance) Rules of 1940, which impose limits on payments based on government-fixed rates. They also claimed that Singh had signed an undertaking agreeing to accept reimbursements according to these prescribed rates.

However, the commission noted that there was no proof that the specific terms, conditions, or package rates were clearly explained or communicated to Singh. It concluded that simply submitting an affidavit without ensuring informed consent did not obligate the complainant to accept the limited reimbursement.

The consumer panel emphasized that the treatment was for a life-threatening illness and that the expenses incurred were legitimate and undisputed.

Describing the partial reimbursement as “arbitrary” and indicative of “deficiency in service,” the commission mandated the authorities to pay the remaining ₹2.90 lakh, plus an annual interest of 9% from August 17, 2021, until the amount is fully paid.

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