Central Government Revises GST Rates: How to complain if prices aren’t reduced after September 22

GST rates cut to 5% and 18% from September 22, 2025. Consumers can file complaints via helpline, website, or app if shopkeepers don’t reduce prices accordingly.

New Delhi: The central government has given a big gift to the common people of the country. The government has released new GST (Goods and Services Tax) rates, which will come into effect from September 22, 2025.

Under this, the four GST rates in the country — 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28% — will be abolished and only two rates, 5% and 18%, will remain. This decision was taken in the GST Council meeting held on September 3, 2025. This change will make many everyday essential items cheaper.

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What GST rates will apply on which items?

The government has categorized many goods and services under either 5% or 18%. Essential household items like oil, soap, shampoo, milk, butter, and ghee will attract 5% GST. On the other hand, items such as televisions, refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, bikes, and cars will attract 18% GST.

The aim is to reduce prices for consumers and bring transparency to the market.

What to do if the shopkeeper doesn’t reduce prices even after the GST cut?

Many people wonder what rights they have if a shopkeeper continues to sell goods at the old prices despite the GST reduction and how they can file a complaint. To address this, the central government has provided several facilities so customers can easily register their complaints.

How to file a complaint?

National Consumer Helpline (NCH)

Customers can file complaints by calling the toll-free numbers 1800-11-4000 or 1915. Complaints can also be sent via WhatsApp to the number 8800001915.

Online complaint through website

Customers can visit the National Consumer Helpline website https://consumerhelpline.gov.in/public/, sign up, log in, and register their complaints. They can upload necessary documents along with the complaint. After registering the complaint, a docket number is issued to track its progress.

Complaint through mobile app

Complaints can also be registered by downloading the National Consumer Helpline mobile app from the Google Play Store or App Store. Additionally, the UMANG app also has a Consumer Complaints option.

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How to file a complaint in the Consumer Forum?

If the concerned company or shopkeeper does not respond to your complaint, you can also file a complaint in the Consumer Forum. You do not need to visit the shopkeeper’s or company’s city to file the complaint; you can apply at any forum in your city or state. Information about the forums is available in the Forums section of the website https://consumerhelpline.gov.in/public/.

This major change in GST rates brings relief to the general public. If a shopkeeper still sells goods at old prices despite the reduction, customers can register complaints and take legal action. The government has provided several easy and digital ways to file complaints, enabling consumers to feel safe and empowered.