In 1999, 66-year-old lawyer Tungnath Chaturvedi had to purchase two more tickets while riding a train from Mathura to Moradabad.
He paid the conductor 100 rupees after speaking with him (1.22 euros). Chaturvedi then had to pay a total of 70 rupees because the ticket was 35 rupees, but the conductor only gave him back 10 rupees.
The collector refused to give the lawyer the right change when he asked for it. Therefore, the man overpaid by 20 rupees (0.24 euros).
As a result, Chaturvedi filed a lawsuit against the conductor and the railroad firm. The legal battle dragged on for years. The individual told the BBC, “I attended more than 100 hearings on this matter. However, it is impossible to value the time and effort spent fighting for this cause.
Asserting that the incorrect court was involved, the railway corporation attempted to dismiss the lawsuit. Chaturvedi was aware of his order, however, and used a special Supreme Court decision to forward the case.
Wrong Compensation
The court has already determined that he has already paid too much after 22 years, The railway corporation must pay a fine of 15,000 rupees (182.50 euros) and pay Chaturvedi 20 rupees with the interest of 12% for the previous year. If the sum is not paid in full within 30 days, the percentage rises to 15%.
According to the attorney, the reimbursement is “minimal” and insufficient to make up for his psychological pain.
“Money is not the issue. I also didn’t have to pay my lawyers or travel to court because I’m a lawyer, so it was worth it. It’s always been about fighting for justice and against corruption. It can be very pricey.”
Chaturvedi’s AttorneyHe claims that people can draw strength from his legal battle and that “you don’t have to give up, even when the fight appears tough.”
