Delhi, 21 August (HS): In a major consumer rights enforcement, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has slapped a penalty of ₹10 lakh on Rapido (Roppen Transportation Services Pvt. Ltd.) for running misleading advertisements that falsely assured, “Auto in 5 minutes or get ₹50.”

The probe revealed that the so-called compensation was not ₹50 in cash but “Rapido coins,” capped at up to ₹50, restricted to bike rides, and valid only for 7 days—significantly diminishing their value. Moreover, while ads boldly claimed the assurance as Rapido’s guarantee, hidden terms shifted responsibility to individual drivers, directly contradicting the main message.

Consumer data highlighted rising complaints against Rapido—575 cases between April 2023 and May 2024 and over 1,200 between June 2024 and July 2025—mostly over service deficiencies, non-refunds, and failure of delivery commitments.

Citing clear violations of the Guidelines for Prevention of Misleading Advertisements and Endorsements, 2022, CCPA has ordered the ride-hailing major not only to withdraw the ads immediately but also to compensate every consumer who was denied the promised refund.

Operating across 120+ cities, Rapido ran these ads for nearly 18 months. With growing consumer grievances and repeated non-resolution of complaints, the watchdog deemed this a case of prolonged deception and unfair trade.

The Authority has called on consumers to stay vigilant against exaggerated claims of “guaranteed” services and to promptly report unfair practices through the National Consumer Helpline (1915).

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar