Overview
Charging more than the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) printed on a packaged product violates the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 and the Packaged Commodities Rules, and is also an unfair trade practice under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
Key Provisions — Legal Metrology Act, 2009
- No seller may charge above the printed MRP (which is inclusive of all taxes).
- Packaged Commodities Rules mandate correct declaration of MRP and quantity.
- Overcharging is an unfair trade practice under the Consumer Protection Act.
- Legal Metrology officers can penalise violators.
What You Can Claim
Refund of the excess amount
Penalty against the seller
Compensation for unfair practice
Action by Legal Metrology dept.
How We Solve It
1
Keep the Bill
We retain the bill and the MRP-printed packaging.
2
Complaint to Authority
We complain to the Legal Metrology department.
3
Consumer Complaint
Unfair-trade-practice complaint before the Commission.
4
Recover Excess
We pursue refund and penalty.
Typical timeline: Resolution typically 2–9 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is charging above MRP illegal?
Yes — MRP is the maximum inclusive price; charging more violates the Legal Metrology Act, 2009.
Can a hotel/cinema charge above MRP on bottled water?
Charging above printed MRP is generally not permitted for packaged commodities and can be challenged.