Revised MRP being sternly monitored: Ram Vilas Paswan

NEW DELHI: Consumer affairs minister Ram Vilas Paswan has warned manufacturers that not displaying revised maximum retail price (MRP) on products whose prices have increased after implementation of GST could lead to a fine, and even a jail term. “Strict action will be taken against those who do not comply and publicise their revised MRP in case of an increase,” he told reporters on Friday.

"It is similar to the process of labelling undertaken during sale. You just have to stick a revised MRP, so that consumers know changes in rates after GST." If a manufacturer does not provide revised MRP rates post GST’s implementation, the person can be punished under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, where fine of up to Rs 25,000 will be levied for the first offence, and up to Rs 50,000 for the second offence. An offence for the third time will attract a fine of between Rs 50,000 and Rs 1 lakh, or imprisonment of up to one year, or both.

BN Dixit, director of legal metrology department, said, “Printed sticker of revised MRP is a must till September 30. Manufacturers will have to print only revised MRP after that.” Paswan said the department has given manufacturers three months to revise MRPs. “There may be problems in the initial days of GST implementation, but they will be over soon.” He also said rules relating to dual MRP cannot be tweaked for certain parties.