Mrs. Sandra Vaz e Correia, Presiding Member — Through this appeal, the appellants have challenged the order dated 21.1.2003 passed by the District Forum, North Goa in Complaint No. 20/1998 whereby the complaint was partly allowed.

2. For convenience, parties to this appeal shall be referred as arrayed before the District Forum.

3. Brief facts of the complaint relevant for the purpose of this appeal are that the complainant purchased a PAL Peugeot 1996 diesel car on 23.8.1996 for Rs.3,31,885/- and got the same insured with the opposite party with effect from 23.8.1996 to 22.8.1997. The said vehicle met with an accident on 28.4.1997 during the period of insurance coverage and was totally damaged.

4. After complying with all the formalities, the complainant approached the opposite party for settlement of his claim. They promised to settle his claim for Rs. 2,80,000. However, as they did not take any steps to settle his claim he had delivered a letter dated 17.10.1997 to the opposite party requesting them to settle his claim within a week’s time or else he would seek appropriate legal remedy. In reply thereto the opposite party sent a letter dated 16.10.1997 informing him that they h