A few days back, many consumers started complaining about restaurants adding LPG charges to food bills, which made dining out costlier. But now, this will soon change. The government has now asked hotels and restaurants not to levy additional charges, calling them unfair. Here’s what you need to know.
Restaurants Can’t Levy LPG Charges On Food Bills
Amid the ongoing LPG crisis in India, many restaurants turned to jugaad, like cutting down menus and serving only sandwiches, salads, curd rice, etc. Some restaurants also started offering tandoori-based items, pizzas, and similar dishes. But several restaurants started adding LPG charges to food bills, which did not go down well with customers. After several complaints about inflated restaurant bills, the government has finally taken notice and warned restaurants.
According to The Economic Times, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has warned restaurants and hotels not to levy these additional LPG charges, as they are considered unfair trade practices under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. Any restaurant levying such charges can face strict action.
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Customers To Pay Only The Menu Price & Taxes
According to Zee News, the advisory issued by the Central Consumer Protection Authority also highlighted that consumers should only pay the price displayed on the menu along with applicable taxes. Any additional charges imposed by default would violate existing norms. Expenses such as fuel, LPG, and electricity are part of running a business and cannot be passed on separately to customers.
CCPA is now actively monitoring restaurants and hotels across the country to ensure compliance with these rules. This new development comes as a sigh of relief for many diners. Honestly, eating out is not cheap, and paying extra LPG charges feels unfair, right? It only adds to the overall cost for customers dining out.
Also Read: From Sita Ram Diwan Chand To Vidyarthi Bhavan, Eateries Across India Grapple With LPG Shortage
What are your thoughts on this? Do you think restaurants should charge customers for LPG?
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FAQs
What is the LPG charge on the food bill?
LPG Charge is an extra charge added by restaurants due to rising LPG prices.
Why is there an LPG shortage in India?
India is facing an LPG shortage due to rising tensions in the Middle East, which have significantly disrupted its supply.
Can restaurants charge customers for LPG?
No, charging customers for LPG is not allowed and is considered an unfair trade practice.