No replacement of a defective device purchased online

[RDADBHAWALA]

(I'm assuming that this is the forum for Sony's customer support).

I purchased a Sony Xperia L from an online store. Within 3 days after receiving the delivery, the camera malfunctioned. I went to the service centre, and they told me that Sony does not replace devices purchased online. If this were purchased from a retail store, I could've had a shot at replacement.
Firstly, I buy a Sony so that I don't have to visit the service centre; at least not in the warranty period. Next, I am disappointed to see that Sony has different arrangements with retail stores compared to online stores.

Please clarify your stand. I will be pursing action in the consumer court.

[asj]

Well, they HAVE to take it if you have a bill with valid VAT/TIN number. Even if its a rough handwritten bill, but has a VAT/TIN stamp of the dealer, it will work. You DO NOT even need to mention that you purchased it online. If your bill has valid VAT/TIN, still the service centre guys are not accepting, you can easily approach your local police station and file a complaint. Alternatively, you can approach consumer court as well.

But before going anywhere, just check this information on your bill and verify VAT/TIN with the seller.

Reason: If VAT/TIN number is not present on the bill, it means its a gray market product, on which manufacturer warranty does not apply. Government has made it mandatory to all phone manufacturers to take bills only with valid VAT/TIN number, which implies the seller has paid VAT on that product.

Hope this helps.