Chandigarh: Charging for carry bag without prior notice is unfair trade practice, says Panel

Chandigarh resident Shivani filed a complaint after noticing an extra ₹12 fee on her September 21, 2025 bill for a paper carry bag used at a local store. The purchase had been made without any prior information about such a charge, and Shivani raised the matter when the amount appeared on her receipt. A consumer panel reviewing the case has described the charge as an unfair trade practice, emphasizing that it was levied without prior notice to the customer. In many shops across the city, customers are now being asked to pay for carry bags, a practice that has grown alongside the push to reduce plastic waste. While environmental concerns are valid, the lack of clear communication about any additional cost can mislead shoppers and undermine trust. The panel’s ruling does not specify a penalty for the store, but it signals that authorities may intervene if similar charges continue without notice. Consumer advocates say the incident highlights the need for transparent billing practices and for retailers to inform customers before applying extra charges. For now, Shivani’s case serves as a reminder that even small fees can raise larger questions about fairness in everyday transactions.

Source: Hindustan Times