A consumer court in Karachi has ordered two internet service providers (ISPs) to pay compensation after finding them responsible for delivering deficient and unreliable internet services to a customer.
The case was filed by lawyer Khaleeq Ahmed under the Sindh Consumer Protection Act, 2014, after the complainant alleged that the companies repeatedly failed to provide stable internet connectivity despite receiving regular payments for their services.
According to court proceedings, the ISPs did not meet the expected service standards, resulting in persistent disruptions and inconvenience for the consumer. The complaint highlighted ongoing service failures that affected the user’s ability to access reliable internet despite being a paying customer.
Judicial Magistrate (South) Abdul Ahad Memon ruled in favor of the plaintiff, holding both internet service providers accountable for failing to fulfill their service obligations. The court ordered the companies to jointly pay Rs. 50,000 as compensation to the affected customer.
In addition to the compensation amount, the court also directed the ISPs to deposit a fine of Rs. 5,000 into the Sindh government treasury. The ruling reinforces the legal framework that protects consumers against substandard services and ensures accountability within the telecommunications sector.
The decision is being viewed as a reminder for service providers to maintain quality standards and adhere to contractual obligations, especially in sectors where reliable connectivity is essential for daily personal and professional activities.
Consumer rights advocates have long emphasized the importance of enforcing service quality standards in Pakistan’s growing digital economy. Cases like this highlight the role of consumer courts in addressing grievances and ensuring fair treatment of customers.
The ruling may also encourage more consumers to pursue legal action in cases of persistent service deficiencies, strengthening accountability within the internet service industry.
