In an ordinary retail sale, selling an applicable packaged commodity above its MRP may be contrary to the rules. Taxes are included in the printed MRP, so adding tax separately and charging more is not appropriate.
It is important to consider the scope of the Legal Metrology rules, the type of package and the nature of the transaction. Goods supplied as part of a composite service in a hotel or restaurant should not be treated in the same way as an ordinary retail sale. Similarly, the rule concerning a printed MRP may not directly apply to loose goods.
What should you do now?
- Take a photo of the MRP on the packaging and the actual price shown on the bill.
- Ask the seller to explain the difference and request a corrected bill or a refund.
- Submit a complaint, with supporting evidence, to the State Legal Metrology Department or the NCH.
Which documents should you keep?
The package, a photo of the MRP, the bill, the shop’s address and proof of payment.
Avoid this mistake
Do not treat a service transaction and an ordinary retail sale in a shop as the same when making a claim in every situation.
A hypothetical example
The MRP on a packet is ₹100, but an ordinary shop adds GST on top of ₹100. Keep photos of the packet and the bill. The complaint should make clear that the transaction was a retail sale, not a separate composite restaurant service.
Can goods be sold for less than the MRP?
Yes. The MRP is the maximum retail price; a sale at a lower price is possible.
Legal basis and useful sources
- Department of Consumer Affairs — Legal Metrology and MRP for packaged commodities
- Department of Consumer Affairs — National Consumer Helpline
This is general legal information. Advice may differ depending on your facts, the applicable law and state rules.