GST rate cuts: No reduction of prices? Complain via WhatsApp, toll free number

Consumers who feel they have not received the benefit of the recent Goods and Services Tax (GST) rate cut can now raise complaints through multiple channels, the government said on Tuesday.A set of FAQs released by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs says that people can call the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) on the toll-free number 1915 or use WhatsApp at 8800001915. Complaints and queries may also be submitted online via the Integrated Grievance Redressal Mechanism (INGRAM) portal.The GST structure was simplified from September 22, moving from four tax slabs of 5%, 12%, 18% and 28% to just two: 5% and 18%. The CBIC said this has reduced the prices of 99% of commonly used goods.Although a formal anti-profiteering system has not been activated for such cases, the government is monitoring pricing trends. Officials said several companies have voluntarily reduced prices to pass on the benefits of the lower tax rates.Even so, posts on social media suggest that some businesses are not passing on these benefits to customers, sparking complaints from consumers.