CCPA Cracks Down: 27 Restaurants Penalized for Illegal Service Charges

• CCPA took suo motu cognizance against 27 restaurants for unfair service charges, violating consumer rights.
• The action follows a Delhi High Court ruling upholding CCPA guidelines against mandatory service charges.
• Guidelines state service charges cannot be automatically added, are voluntary, and cannot deny service for non-payment.
• Investigations found establishments like Café Blue Bottle and China Gate (Bora Bora) automatically levying 10% service charges.
• Restaurants face refunds, penalties (e.g., ₹30,000 for Café Blue Bottle, ₹50,000 for Bora Bora), and orders to modify billing.