3,981 calls and 69% complaints on GST 2.0; consumers venting their anger on milk, LPG, and electronic goods. What are they saying?
GST 2.0 complaints: Following the implementation of the new GST Reforms 2025, the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) has been inundated with complaints. The helpline has received 3,981 GST-related calls so far. Of these, 31% were queries, while 69% were complaints.
The Department of Consumer Affairs has stated that all complaints are being monitored and forwarded to companies and e-commerce platforms for prompt resolution. Meanwhile, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has clarified that class action will be taken if necessary.
What complaints are being received regarding the GST rate cut?
Most complaints are being received regarding milk prices
Most complaints were received regarding milk prices. Consumers believed that milk companies should reduce the price of fresh milk after the GST cut. However, the CCPA has clarified that fresh milk is already GST-free. Now, UHT milk is also exempt from GST.
Dissatisfaction with Electronics
Many consumers complained that the old GST rate was being charged on laptops, refrigerators, washing machines, and other electronic items purchased online. The CCPA stated that the GST rate on TVs, monitors, dishwashers, and ACs had been reduced from 28% to 18%. However, laptops, refrigerators, and washing machines were already in the 18% slab, so there was no change.
Misconceptions about LPG and Petrol
Many consumers complained about why the prices of LPG cylinders and petrol had not been reduced. The CCPA stated that domestic LPG already attracts a 5% GST, and there was no change. It clarified that petrol is outside the scope of GST, and therefore, the expectation of a price reduction is a misconception.
Where did the complaints go?
1,992 complaints were sent to the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), while 761 complaints were sent directly to the companies. The CCPA is continuously monitoring these complaints, and strict action will be taken where companies do not pass on the benefits of the GST reduction to consumers.
Industry Warned
On September 11, 2020, a meeting was held under the chairmanship of Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare with major industry bodies such as FICCI, ASSOCHAM, CII, RAI, and CAIT. They were directed to ensure that consumers receive the full benefit of the GST rate cut and that MRPs be reduced.
Furthermore, a roundtable on Ease of Doing Business was held on September 24, 2020, where companies and consumer organizations were clearly told to immediately pass on the benefits of the GST reduction to consumers.
Complaints can be filed in 17 languages.
The government and the CCPA clarified that consumers can lodge any type of complaint directly through the 1915 toll-free number, consumerhelpline.gov.in, the NCH App, the Umang App, WhatsApp, and SMS.
Complaints can be filed in 17 languages. The CCPA has warned that if companies incorrectly charge GST or do not pass on the benefit of reductions, strict action will be taken against them under the Consumer Protection Act 2019 and other laws.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Dainik Jagran. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
