Cabinet clears setting up of GST anti-profiteering body

Body to ensure benefits of rate reduction passed on to consumers

The Cabinet on Thursday set the ball rolling for establishment of a national anti-profiteering authority amid reports that restaurants were not passing on the benefits of reduced goods and services tax (GST) rates to consumers.

The Cabinet cleared the creation of the posts of chairman and members of the authority, which will ensure consumers receive the benefits of reduced prices in the new indirect tax regime.

“This paves the way for immediate establishment of this apex body,” said Union law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.

“The National Anti-Profiteering Authority is an assurance to consumers. If any consumer feels the benefit