The National Consumer Helpline (NCH) has received 3,981 GST 2.0-related complaints since the rollout of Next-Generation GST Reforms on September 22, with milk prices, electronic goods, LPG, and petrol emerging as the top areas of consumer concern.According to the Department of Consumer Affairs, which CNBC-TV18 had reported earlier, 31% of the dockets were queries while 69% were grievances. Of these, 1,992 grievances have already been forwarded to the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) for action, and 761 complaints were referred in real time to companies for resolution.
A total of 3,000 GST-related #complaints have been received by the National #Consumerhelpline since the introduction of the revised rates. For additional action, some of these complaints are being sent to the #CBIC.https://t.co/sgBeNRTk5o
— GST Helpline (@gsthelpline) October 1, 2025
Majority of the complaints stemmed from consumer misconceptions. Many believed that milk prices would decline after the reforms, prompting large-scale grievances against dairy companies. However, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) clarified that fresh milk has always been exempt from GST, and UHT milk was recently exempted.Another set of complaints were related to electronic goods purchased online, with consumers alleging they were still charged at pre-reform rates. The CCPA noted that while the GST on TVs, monitors, dishwashers, and air conditioners was reduced from 28% to 18%, other goods, such as laptops, refrigerators, and washing machines, were already taxed at 18%.Also read | September GST collections rise 9.1% to reach ₹1.89 lakh croreGrievances over LPG pricing also surfaced, although GST rate on domestic cylinders remains unchanged at 5%. Officials said LPG prices depend on global oil trends and subsidies, not just GST. Similarly, complaints on petrol pricing were clarified as misplaced, since petrol remains outside GST’s purview.Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare recently held consultations with industry bodies including FICCI, ASSOCHAM, CII, RAI, and CAIT, urging them to ensure GST benefits are passed on to consumers. The CCPA has warned of strict action against companies found guilty of overcharging or failing to pass on tax cuts.The Department underlined that the NCH, accessible via toll-free 1915, INGRAM portal, apps, and WhatsApp, remains the primary channel for grievance redressal.Also read | GST on hotels slashed, but bills remain the same-here’s why
Source link
