Mohit Chopra alleges Airtel store staff denied SIM reissue despite his brother being in a coma. Read full details of this urgent complaint on Choice4Voice.com
Note: If this issue is resolved, the concerned brand or the complainant may contact us at support@choice4voice.com. After proper verification, we will either update this article as “Resolved” or delete it, ensuring fairness to both parties.
Complaint Summary : Airtel Complaint by Mohit Chopra – SIM Reissue Denied During Medical Emergency
| Customer Name | Mohit Chopra (on behalf of Chirag Chopra) |
|---|---|
| Complaint Type | SIM Reissue Denied / Negligence in Medical Emergency |
| Company | Airtel |
| Product/Service | Mobile SIM – Linked to Bank Accounts & Services |
| Location | Airtel Store, Ambedkar Chowk, Karnal |
| Issue Reported | Store staff refused SIM reissue despite submission of ID, hospital certificate, and proof of emergency |
| Customer Demand | Immediate blocking of number & reissuance of SIM in family member’s name |
| Complaint Source | LinkedIn Post |
| Published On | Choice4Voice.com |
Detailed Complaint
Consumer Mohit Chopra, an MCA Graduate and aspiring React.js developer, has raised a serious complaint against Airtel regarding the denial of SIM reissue in a medical emergency.
According to the complaint, his brother Chirag Chopra is currently in a coma, and his Airtel number is linked with bank accounts and critical services. In such a situation, the family urgently needed the SIM to be blocked and reissued to prevent misuse and to access necessary services.
Mohit Chopra visited the Airtel Store at Ambedkar Chowk, Karnal, and explained the urgency to the staff member Ms. Shubangi. Despite presenting all required documents including his brother’s ID proof, hospital certificate, and his own identification he was denied help.
He has expressed deep disappointment, especially since he has been a loyal Airtel Black customer with family plans. The refusal of support in such a genuine emergency has not only caused distress but has also raised concerns about Airtel’s responsibility towards customers in crisis situations.
Consumer Rights in This Case
Under Indian telecom and consumer protection laws, Mohit Chopra has the following rights:
- Right to Emergency Support – Telecom operators must assist customers in genuine emergencies.
- Right to SIM Reissue – With valid ID and proof of relation, a SIM can be reissued in case of medical incapacity.
- Right to Protection from Negligence – Refusing critical service without valid grounds amounts to deficiency of service.
- Right to Escalation – Consumers can escalate unresolved telecom complaints to TRAI, DoT, and Consumer Court.
What Airtel Should Do
To resolve this case, Airtel must:
- Immediately block the existing SIM to prevent misuse.
- Issue a replacement SIM in the name of the immediate family member upon verification.
- Train store staff to handle medical emergency cases sensitively and responsibly.
- Provide a written explanation and assurance to the customer regarding corrective action.
Choice4Voice.com Statement
At Choice4Voice.com, we highlight genuine consumer grievances to ensure companies like Airtel uphold their promises of reliability and trust.
In this case, the refusal to assist during a medical emergency is a matter of serious concern. Telecom operators play a critical role in daily life, and denial of service in such sensitive situations is unacceptable.
By amplifying Mohit Chopra’s voice, Choice4Voice.com urges Airtel to take immediate corrective action and ensure that no consumer faces such negligence in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can Airtel deny SIM reissue in a medical emergency?
No. With valid ID proof and supporting medical documents, Airtel must facilitate SIM reissue.
Q2. What documents are required for SIM reissue if the original user is incapacitated?
Hospital certificate, ID proof of the customer, family relation proof, and applicant’s ID proof.
Q3. How can I escalate a complaint if the Airtel store refuses help?
File a grievance on Airtel’s official portal, escalate to the Nodal Officer, then to TRAI/DoT if unresolved.
Q4. Can a family member apply for SIM reissue on behalf of an unconscious patient?
Yes, telecom regulations allow family members to apply with proper documentation.
Q5. Is Airtel legally liable for refusing service in emergencies?
Yes. Such refusal can be challenged as deficiency of service under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
Q6. What should I do if my SIM is linked to bank accounts and I cannot access it?
Immediately request the operator to block the SIM and issue a replacement.
Q7. Can telecom companies be penalized for negligence?
Yes. TRAI and Consumer Courts can impose penalties on operators for failing in critical duties.
Q8. How long does SIM reissue usually take?
In normal cases, SIM reissue is completed within 24–48 hours. In emergencies, it should be prioritized.
Q9. What is Airtel Black?
A premium bundled plan by Airtel offering family connections, broadband, and postpaid services under one plan.
Q10. Why is blocking a SIM important in such cases?
To prevent financial fraud and misuse of linked services like bank accounts and UPI.
Q11. Can I file a police complaint if Airtel denies service?
Yes, especially if the denial risks financial fraud or endangers security.
Q12. How do I contact Airtel’s higher authorities?
Through Airtel’s Appellate Authority or by writing to the Nodal Officer of your circle.
Q13. Does TRAI directly handle consumer complaints?
No, TRAI regulates operators. Complaints should be raised via DoT or Consumer Court.
Q14. Can I demand compensation for distress caused?
Yes. Consumer Court can award compensation for harassment and negligence.
Q15. How does Choice4Voice.com help consumers?
By publishing genuine cases, Choice4Voice.com ensures public visibility and corporate accountability.
Q16. How do telecom laws protect consumers in India?
Under the Telecom Consumer Protection Regulations, operators must safeguard user rights.
Q17. Can Airtel terminate service without customer consent?
No. Service suspension or refusal without valid grounds is against consumer law.
Q18. What is the process if Airtel ignores my complaint?
Approach the DoT grievance portal (pgportal.gov.in) or file a legal case.
Q19. Can SIM be reissued in another city?
Yes, SIM replacement can be requested at any official Airtel store.
Q20. Why is public reporting of such complaints important?
It ensures consumer voices are heard, creates pressure on companies, and drives quicker resolutions.
📌 Original Complaint Source: LinkedIn Post by Mohit Chopra
📌 Published On: Choice4Voice.com – India’s Consumer Complaint Platform
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