TAJ MAHAL HOTEL vs UNITED INDIA INSURANCE CO.LTD.

The Supreme Court upheld the decision of the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, affirming that a hotel can be held liable for the theft of a vehicle parked by a guest under a bailment contract. The Court referenced the principles established in Economic Transport Organisation v. Charan Spinning Mills (Pvt.) Ltd. and clarified that the insurer, as a subrogee, has the standing to file a complaint against the hotel for deficiency in service under the Consumer Protection Act. The Court emphasized that the hotel’s disclaimer of liability does not absolve it from responsibility when a vehicle is parked at its premises for a fee.