The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued a fresh advisory cautioning hotels and restaurants against adding extra charges such as “LPG charges”, “gas surcharge”, or “fuel cost recovery” to customer bills—a move that directly impacts diners in Guwahati.
The authority has termed such practices as unfair trade practices under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, following multiple complaints from consumers across the country.
The government has warned that hotels and restaurants cannot add extra charges like LPG or fuel costs to bills. In Guwahati, eateries must include all operational costs in menu prices, and adding such charges separately is considered an unfair trade practice.
What the Advisory Says
According to the CCPA:
- Adding LPG or fuel charges separately is not allowed
- Costs like gas and electricity must be included in menu pricing
- Charges added without customer consent are illegal
The authority clarified that such practices violate consumer rights and transparency norms.
Complaints Trigger Action
The advisory follows:
- Multiple complaints via the National Consumer Helpline (NCH)
- Reports of automatic addition of extra charges
- Instances where businesses used terms like “fuel surcharge” to bypass rules
Consumers were often billed these charges without prior information or approval.
Impact on Guwahati Diners
For customers in Guwahati, the directive means:
- Bills should only include menu prices + applicable taxes
- No hidden or forced additional charges
- Greater transparency in restaurant billing
The move is especially relevant as dining and café culture continue to grow in the city.
What Businesses Must Follow
Restaurants and hotels in Guwahati must ensure:
- All operational costs are factored into menu prices
- No mandatory extra charges are added
- Clear and transparent billing practices
Failure to comply could invite action under the Consumer Protection Act.
What Happens Next
Authorities may increase monitoring of billing practices in restaurants across cities like Guwahati. Consumers are also encouraged to report violations through official channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can restaurants in Guwahati charge LPG or fuel fees separately?
No, such charges are considered unfair and are not allowed.
Q2. What should a restaurant bill include?
Only menu prices and applicable taxes.
Q3. What can customers do if they are charged extra?
They can report the issue through the National Consumer Helpline.