Has the Govt Received 3,000 Complaints About Misleading Discounts After GST Cuts?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Indian government has been inundated with complaints about misleading discounts from consumers following GST rate reductions. With nearly 3,000 reports, Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare emphasizes their commitment to addressing deceptive practices. The ministry is using advanced technology to monitor these complaints and ensure consumer protection.
Key Takeaways
- 3,000 consumer complaints regarding misleading discounts received.
- Complaints highlight unfair pricing practices by retailers.
- The government is utilizing AI for monitoring.
- Possible class action against sectors with numerous complaints.
- Revised GST rates effective from September 22.
New Delhi, Sep 29 (NationPress) The government has received approximately 3,000 complaints from consumers regarding misleading discounts and unfair pricing strategies by retailers following the recent reductions in Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates, as stated by Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare on Monday.
During an event, Khare noted that complaints are being received daily, and the ministry is directing them to the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) for appropriate measures.
"Daily, we are receiving complaints. Up to now, we have accumulated nearly 3,000 consumer complaints. We are forwarding them to the CBIC for necessary action," Khare informed reporters.
She elaborated that many complaints indicate the presence of “dark patterns” in pricing, where retailers are allegedly failing to pass on the benefits of reduced GST rates to their customers.
"If we receive numerous complaints from various sectors, a class action could be warranted. We are actively monitoring this situation. We will certainly address any instances where consumers are deceived by misleading discounts," Khare emphasized.
To enhance oversight, the ministry is leveraging artificial intelligence and chatbot technology to monitor and analyze complaints across different sectors.
“Our focus is on misleading advertisements, unfair trade practices, and situations where the advantages of GST cuts are not reflected in the final prices consumers are paying,” she added.
Khare mentioned that if a significant number of complaints arise from a specific sector, the government might contemplate a class action against such practices.
“We will certainly pay attention to any situation where consumers are getting swindled with misleading discounts,” she reiterated.
The influx of complaints follows the GST Council’s 56th meeting on September 3, which approved rate rationalization across several categories.
The updated GST rates became effective on September 22.
Point of View
It's paramount to highlight the importance of consumer protection in our nation. The recent surge in complaints regarding misleading discounts post-GST cuts reflects a broader issue of transparency in retail practices. It is essential for the government to take decisive action to safeguard consumer interests, ensuring that the benefits of tax reductions genuinely reach the public.
NationPress
29/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main complaints from consumers?
Consumers are primarily complaining about misleading discounts and unfair pricing practices following the recent cuts in GST rates.
What action is the government taking regarding these complaints?
The government is forwarding the complaints to the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs for further investigation and action.
What technology is being used to monitor complaints?
The ministry is utilizing artificial intelligence and chatbot technology to track and analyze these consumer complaints.
What could trigger a class action from the government?
If a significant number of complaints arise from a specific sector, it could warrant a class action against unfair practices.
When did the revised GST rates take effect?
The revised GST rates came into effect on September 22.
