Retail Shops Can't Take Customer’s Mobile Number: Chandigarh Consumer Commission

The Chandigarh Consumer Commission (CDRC) ruled that retail stores cannot compel customers to provide mobile numbers for purchases. 

Advocate Pankaj Chandgothia filed a complaint after A&S Luxury Fashion House at Elante Mall took his number for billing, arguing it violated data privacy laws.

Citing a May 2023 Consumer Affairs notification, he claimed this practice is an unfair trade practice and risks unauthorized tracking and fraud.

The IT Act, 2000 (Section 72-A) prohibits sharing personal data without consent.

The Commission directed the store to delete his details, stop collecting data without explicit consent, and stop unfair practices.

Compensation of ₹2,500 was directed to be paid for the breach.