Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 2: Union Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi announced that the Department of Consumer Affairs has addressed nearly 4,000 complaints and queries related to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) through the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), underscoring the government’s renewed focus on ensuring tax benefits reach consumers.

“The CCPA is closely monitoring grievances—ensuring transparency, protecting consumers from misinformation and guaranteeing that the benefits of GST reforms truly reach every Indian,” Joshi stated, referring to the Central Consumer Protection Authority.

Amid rising concerns that businesses are not passing on GST rate cuts to consumers, the government has placed e-commerce platforms and FMCG pricing under increased scrutiny. Officials confirmed that platforms selling daily-use goods such as shampoos and pulses are being monitored to ensure compliance with tax reduction policies.

Consumers can lodge complaints using the 1915 helpline, NCH portal, UMANG app, WhatsApp, and SMS — now available in 17 regional languages — to report any instances where tax reductions are not reflected in pricing.

“Wherever GST benefits are being withheld from consumers, authorities are taking action,” Joshi added, highlighting the government’s push for accountability in the retail ecosystem.

This intensified monitoring comes alongside a notable uptick in GST revenue. According to official data, India collected Rs 1.89 lac crore in September, marking a 9.1% increase year-on-year — the highest growth rate in the past four months. It also extended the streak of monthly GST inflows exceeding Rs 1.8 lac crore to nine consecutive months.

Interestingly, the revenue gains were achieved despite subdued consumer spending on non-durable goods, with many buyers reportedly delaying purchases in anticipation of further GST rate cuts.

To strengthen domestic demand and offset global economic uncertainties, the government recently announced a rationalisation of the GST structure. The reform aims to reduce the tax burden on consumers, spur consumption, and encourage businesses to ramp up investments by improving demand visibility.

As the festive season approaches, officials expect these measures to provide a much-needed boost to household spending and economic activity, while restoring consumer confidence in the fairness and transparency of India’s tax system.