Gas Crisis Charge: Can Hotels, Restaurants Legally Add It to Your Bill?

• Amid West Asia war, India faces commercial LPG cylinder shortage, impacting restaurants and hotels.
• A Bengaluru cafe's bill with a 5% 'gas crisis charge' for lemonade went viral, sparking outrage.
• Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and CCPA guidelines state restaurants can only charge listed price and GST.
• Authorities clarify no additional fees without consent; establishments must revise menu prices transparently.
• Consumers can report unfair practices via National Consumer Helpline (1915) or NCH portal; CCPA can impose penalties.