Mumbai: The State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (SCDRC) has issued a notice to Uber, directing the company to appear and file its reply in an appeal filed by a woman who claimed that she was left stranded at 2:36 in the night in November 2020 because she was traveling with her sick pet dog.
The SCDRC in its orders passed maintained that the appellant have prima facie made out to get the appeal admitted and hence notice has been send to Uber about the same.
Allegations of Stranded Passenger and Endangered Pet
The appellant, Reema Chawla, alleges that two Uber drivers denied her ride requests, causing significant distress, jeopardizing her safety, and endangering her pet’s health. She initially sought compensation and a push for more pet-friendly policies in Uber’s services, but her complaint was dismissed by the Central District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission. The District Commission held that there was no binding agreement, legal provision, or established rule to support her claim.
Challenging the ruling, Chawla filed an appeal in October 2024 before the State Commission, which has now admitted her plea. In her appeal, she argues that the District Commission failed to consider prevention of cruelty to animals, which she says do not prohibit individuals from traveling with their pets in local transport for necessary purposes, such as medical treatment or care for stray animals.
Counsel Highlights District Commission’s Procedural Lapses
Her counsel, Advocate Prashant Nayak, pointed out settled principle of law in the District Commission’s handling of the case, noting that Uber failed to submit its written defense within the prescribed time limit and instead introduced evidence belatedly during final arguments.
“The District Commission ignored settled principles of law, resulting in a denial of justice and hardship for Ms. Chawla, who is genuinely advocating for the rights of voiceless animals,” Nayak said.
Legal Arguments Highlight Animal Rights and Passenger Safety
Chawla’s appeal also cites the Supreme Court’s recognition of animals’ right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution, arguing that both her rights and her dog’s rights were violated. She further stressed the safety risks she faced being stranded alone at a late hour.
The State Commission has now initiated proceedings in the case ans have sought Uber’s formal response to the allegations.
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Chawla while speaking to FPJ said, “I’m grateful that the State Commission has admitted my appeal and issued notice to Uber — it feels like my voice, and my dog’s, are finally being heard. That night, past midnight, I stood stranded with my sick pet in my arms, rejected and helpless. This case isn’t about money — it’s about dignity, safety, and compassion. I hope this fight opens the doors for every passenger, human or furry, to be treated with the respect they deserve.”
