JUDGMENT

Tushar Rao Gedela, J. (Oral)

[The proceeding has been conducted through Hybrid mode]

CM APPL No. 13573/2023

1. This is an application seeking exemption from filing certified copies of the annexures.

2. Exemption is allowed, subject to all just exceptions.

3. Application stands disposed of.

CM(M) 455/2023 & CM APP No.13572/2023 (Stay)

4. The petitioner challenges the order dated 17.01.2023 passed by the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (hereinafter referred to as "National Commission") in MA No. 58/2019 in First Appeal No. 1324/2018 titled 'Medan Murari Verma & Ors vs. Apollo Multispeciality Hospital Ltd & Ors.' whereby the learned National Commission has permitted reduction in the claim amount to an amount below Rs.1 Crore so as to enable the respondent/consumer to maintain his original claim before the State Commission of West Bengal.

5. Learned counsel challenges the said direction given by National Commission on specific grounds of pecuniary jurisdiction falling within the ambit of Section 17 of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986.

6. It is submitted by learned counsel that the respondent/complainant had originally filed the complaint before the State Com