GST not reduced on your bill? File a complaint for GST overcharge with NAA online and email

The recent GST rate reduction on essential goods and household items was intended to ease the financial burden on consumers. However, many shoppers, both online and offline, report that prices remain higher than the revised rates, raising concerns about whether the GST benefits are actually reaching end users. If you have been overcharged despite the tax cut, you have legal protections under the Legal Metrology Act and consumer rights laws.

Filing a complaint can help you reclaim the savings you are entitled to while holding retailers accountable. Complaints can be lodged online, via email, or by post through the National Anti-Profiteering Authority and the National Consumer Helpline, ensuring that tax reductions translate into real consumer benefits.


Understanding overcharging GST rates and the Legal Metrology Act

Charging more than the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) violates the provisions of the Legal Metrology Act. Retailers are legally bound to display and sell goods at MRP, including all applicable taxes such as GST. Overcharging not only harms consumers financially but also undermines the purpose of tax reforms intended to reduce and ease the cost of essential products for the public.

If you suspect overcharging, it is important to know that complaints can be formally lodged with the relevant authorities to seek timely redress. This ensures that the benefit of the GST rate cut properly reaches you, the consumer, protecting your rights and promoting fair trade practices.



How to file a complaint on overcharged GST rates: Step-by-step guide to complaint

The government has made it simple to report cases of overcharging. Consumers and suppliers can register complaints through several channels depending on their preference.


Online complaint facility

Consumers can file complaints online through the National Anti-Profiteering Authority (NAA) portal.


1. Filing a complaint online via NAA portal

• Step 1: Visit the NAA Complaint Portal at https://www.naa.gov.in/login.php
• Step 2: Register or log in using your details to access the complaint submission form.
• Step 3: Follow the guidelines for consumers provided on the portal to prepare your grievance. You can check the guidelines here
• Step 4: Fill in all required information, including details of the product, retailer, price charged, and proof of purchase.
• Step 5: Submit the complaint. You will receive a reference number to track the status of your case.

This method is fast, convenient, and ideal for consumers comfortable with digital platforms.


2. Filing a complaint via email

• Step 1: Identify the correct agency based on the scope of your complaint:
  • Standing Committee (All-India issues): sc.antiprofiteering@gov.in,anti-profiteering@gov.in
  • State-Screening Committees (Local issues): Refer to state-wise email addresses
• Step 2: Draft an email including:
  • Your full name and contact details
  • Details of the product or service
  • Date and place of purchase
  • Proof of overcharging (bills, invoices, screenshots)

• Step 3: Send the email to the relevant agency.
• Step 4: Keep a copy of the email for reference and follow up if required.

Email complaints create a written record, making it easier to provide evidence and track progress.


3. Complaints by post

According to GST council, for those who prefer traditional methods, complaints can be sent via post:

Addresses:

National Anti-Profiteering Authority
6th Floor, Tower One, Jeevan Bharati Building, Connaught Place, New Delhi-110 001

Directorate General of Anti-Profiteering & Standing Committee
2nd Floor, Bhai Vir Singh Sahitya Sadan, Bhai Vir Singh Marg, Gole Market, New Delhi -110 001

Postal complaints allow submission of physical documents and bills, which may strengthen the case.


National helplines and consumer support for overcharging complaints

The government provides multiple helplines and support channels for consumers who have been overcharged after GST rate cuts. The National Consumer Helpline (NCH) can be reached via toll-free numbers 1800-11-4000 and 14404, or by dialing 1915. Complaints can also be submitted online through the official portals, via email, mobile app, or WhatsApp, making the process accessible nationwide. The helpline accepts grievances in 17 languages, ensuring all consumers can seek help easily. These channels allow consumers to report overcharging, track their complaints, and get timely redressal, ensuring that GST reductions are reflected in actual retail prices and retailers remain accountable under the law.


Why filing a complaint is important

Consumers raising complaints do more than reclaim personal savings—they help maintain a fair marketplace. When complaints are registered, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) monitors compliance and ensures that non-compliant retailers face corrective action.

By taking action, you contribute to:

• Ensuring GST reductions reach actual consumers
• Promoting transparency in retail pricing
• Supporting regulatory enforcement against profiteering

If you notice that prices have not reduced post-GST rate cut, don’t remain silent. Legal provisions under the Legal Metrology Act protect your rights. Complaints can be lodged online, by email, or via post, and help from the National Consumer Helpline makes the process accessible and effective. Taking action safeguards your financial interests and ensures that tax benefits fulfill their intended purpose.


Overpricing isn’t just wrong—it’s prohibited by law. Taking action by filing a complaint is your right and a vital step toward consumer justice.




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