New Delhi, July 3 -- Relief for common people soon. From ghee and toothpaste to pulses and rice, besan to sewing machines, several items consumed by lower and middle class on a daily basis are likely to get cheaper. Cigarettes, carbonated drinks and high-end cars are among items that may become more expensive if proposals to this effect are approved in the upcoming 56th meeting of the Goods and Service Tax (GST) Council, expected later this month.

After a series of income tax concessions earlier this year, the Government is considering eliminating the 12 per cent GST slab altogether or reclassifying many items currently taxed at 12 per cent into the lower five per cent bracket particularly aimed at easing the burden on essential goods us...