GENERAL MOTORS (I) PRIVATE LIMITED vs ASHOK RAMNIK LAL TOLAT

The Supreme Court addressed the permissibility of awarding punitive damages in the absence of a specific prayer in the complaint and evidence of loss suffered, under the Consumer Protection Act. The Court held that punitive damages cannot be awarded without a clear basis in the complaint and evidence of loss, thereby setting a precedent for future consumer disputes. The appeals were allowed, and the order of the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission was set aside.