GST Rate Cut: Govt Urges Consumers to Report Shops Not Passing on Benefits

Consumers who feel they are not getting the benefit of the recent GST rate cut can now file complaints directly with the government. The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has announced that customers can call the National Consumer Helpline at the toll-free number 1915, send a WhatsApp message to 8800001915, or lodge complaints online through the Integrated Grievance Redressal Mechanism (INGRAM) portal.

From September 22, the GST structure was simplified to just two slabs, 5% and 18%, replacing the earlier 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28% categories. According to CBIC, this change has reduced the prices of nearly 99% of commonly used goods.

While several companies have voluntarily cut prices to reflect the new rates, social media posts show that some businesses are not passing on the benefits to customers. Though no formal anti-profiteering mechanism is in place, the government has said it is closely tracking pricing trends to ensure compliance.