The Cooperative Ombudsman under the Ministry of Cooperation has directed the Multistate Agri-Horticultural Development Cooperative Society, Kottayam, Kerala to refund the pending fixed-deposit dues of complainant K.T. Mathew along with up-to-date interest within 30 days.
Mathew had filed a complaint on 8 August 2025, stating that he had invested Rs 10 lakh in two FDRs of Rs 5 lakh each, dated 25 July 2023 and 8 March 2024. Both deposits had matured, but the society refunded only Rs 2 lakh, despite several reminders, including an email sent on 28 June 2025. The society did not respond to his requests.
After receiving the complaint, the Ombudsman issued a notice seeking a response. In its reply dated 24 September 2025, the society claimed the depositor had not approached them directly and assured the Ombudsman that the matter would be resolved within 30 days. However, in his communication dated 28 October 2025, Shri Mathew confirmed that no further payment had been received.
The Ombudsman noted that the society failed to honour the maturity proceeds and did not act on its own assurance. The authority held the society’s contention as untenable, citing documentary evidence submitted by the complainant.
The society has been ordered to make the full payment with interest and submit a compliance report thereafter.
