NT Reporter
Margao
GST 2.0 came into effect on Monday, but citizens in Margao and Navelim were denied the benefits of reduced tax as superstores and shops continued billing goods at old MRPs despite government campaigning to ensure consumers
get relief.
The Navhind Times visited a state-owned supermarket in Navelim, following consumer complaints, and found that FMCG products were still being sold at old MRPs, even though it was mandatory to display revised rates. Billing staff said old stock would continue at existing MRP until new stock arrived, at which point GST benefits would be passed on.
“It was Sunday and we could not update the system and feed the new rates, it will happen in a few days,” said the store manager.
This was despite FMCG companies issuing revised price lists with new MRPs, effective immediately, on soaps, shampoos, baby diapers, toothpaste, razors, and after-shave lotions. A visit to a store also showed no reduction in prices of butter, ghee, ice-cream, and chocolates, though the company had pasted stickers displaying revised rates.
Sources in the Commercial Tax Department said existing stocks in the market had been aligned to the revised GST structure through special trade discounts and traders were expected to pass on the benefit to customers. Consumers were urged to report traders who failed to comply.
Meanwhile, Navelim MLA Ulhas Tuenkar campaigned at Navelim. He went shop to shop urging traders to pass on GST benefits, while also stressing the “vocal for
local” initiative.
