1 Answer
Dear sir,
Here is a step-by-step plan you could follow to address this situation legally and get your money back:
Step 1: Gather All Your Evidence
Proof of Payment: Find the bank statements, UPI transaction records, or screenshots of messages showing you transferred the ₹12,000. This is your most important piece of evidence.
Communication Records: Collect all text messages, WhatsApp chats, and emails between you and this person. This will prove what was promised, the reason for the deposit, and their refusal to return it.
Police Verification Form: If they gave you a physical form that mentions the need for a father's signature, keep it as evidence of their false claim.
Step 2: Send a Formal Legal Notice
A legal notice is a formal document, usually drafted by a lawyer, that states your demand for the money to be returned within a specific timeframe (e.g., 7 to 15 days).
It serves as a strong warning and shows that you are serious about taking legal action. It also creates a formal legal record of your request.
If you can't afford a lawyer, you can look up templates online, but it is highly recommended to consult with a legal professional.
Step 3: File a Police Complaint
If the person fails to respond to the legal notice, you can file a police complaint (a "non-cognizable report" or NCR) or a First Information Report (FIR).
Go to the police station in the area where the transaction took place.
Clearly state the facts: you paid ₹12,000, they failed to provide the room, and are refusing to refund your money under false pretenses. Provide all the evidence you gathered in Step 1. This could fall under the category of cheating or criminal breach of trust.
Step 4: Consider a Civil Suit
If all else fails, you can file a civil suit for the recovery of your money.
You would file this in a civil court, seeking a court order to compel the person to refund the money along with any legal costs you incur.