PIONEER URBAN LAND AND INFRASTRUCTURE LTD. vs GOVINDAN RAGHAVAN

The Supreme Court upheld the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission's decision under Section 23 of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, affirming that the Appellant – Builder's failure to obtain the Occupancy Certificate within the stipulated time constituted deficiency of service. The Court ruled that the Respondent – Flat Purchaser was entitled to a full refund of Rs. 4,48,43,026/- along with interest at 18% per annum, rejecting the Builder's claim for possession due to the significant delay. The judgment reinforced the principle that timely delivery of possession is essential in real estate transactions.