In a significant order protecting depositor interests, the Office of the Cooperative Ombudsman has directed Thushara Multistate Agro & Marketing Cooperative Society Ltd., Thrissur, Kerala, to refund the fixed deposit of a complainant along with applicable interest within 15 days.
The case was filed by Smt. Anitha P, who had invested Rs 4 lakh in a fixed deposit with the society on 21 December 2024. Citing a medical emergency, she requested premature closure of her FD on 28 January 2025. However, the society neither refunded her money nor responded to her application.
Following her complaint dated 4 June 2025, the Ombudsman issued notices to the society on 13 June and 17 July 2025, including via email. Despite repeated reminders, the society failed to provide any response.
Cooperative Ombudsman Alok Agarwal, while passing the order, observed that the society’s failure to refund or respond clearly indicated negligence. He directed the society to pay the deposit amount along with up-to-date interest and submit a compliance report immediately after payment.
