India's Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has fined 27 restaurants up to Rs 50,000 for mandatorily levying service charges, deeming it an unfair trade practice. The CCPA acted on consumer complaints received via the National Consumer Helpline, directing restaurants to refund collected charges and modify billing systems. This action aligns with CCPA guidelines and a Delhi High Court ruling that service charges are voluntary, not compulsory.