Complaints rise over sale of goods above MRP in Visakhapatnam

Complaints of retailers charging above the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) are increasing in several parts of the city. Consumers say packaged goods, including grocery items and tobacco products, are being sold at higher prices in many neighbourhood stores.

Cigarettes are among the most common examples. Consumers claim that cigarette packs are being sold at prices 30% to 40% higher than the printed MRP at some outlets.

“When we ask shopkeepers about the price, they say dealers are supplying the products at higher rates. They say they have no option but to sell above MRP,” said a resident of Akkayyapalem NGGOs Colony who buys cigarettes from nearby shops.

Retailers, however, say the problem begins at the supply level. A small shop owner said some dealers charge more than the printed MRP while supplying certain products, especially tobacco items. “If we sell only at MRP, we face losses,” he said.

Consumer rights advocates say selling packaged goods above the printed MRP is against the law and amounts to a serious violation of consumer rights.

“Charging more than the printed MRP is a grave violation. It is nothing short of robbery in broad daylight. Authorities must conduct inspections and impose strict penalties to stop such practices,” said a consumer affairs expert.

Residents say stronger enforcement is needed. Consumers have urged the Legal Metrology Department to conduct regular inspections and act against retailers and distributors involved in overpricing.