In India, the Modi government is facing severe criticism for imposing a tax on popcorn.
According to Indian media, India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council has announced a 5% tax on unbranded, salted and spiced popcorn. Pre-packaged and branded popcorn will be taxed at 12%, while caramel popcorn, which falls under the category of sweets made from sugar, will be taxed at 18%. The public and former economic advisors have slammed the Narendra Modi government for its decision to impose a tax on popcorn, calling it depriving the public of cheap food and anti-people.
Social media users are also criticizing the government against the tax on popcorn, and in this regard, a storm of various satirical memes has arisen on social media. According to the Indian government, a 5% GST on popcorn will be implemented immediately and due to this tax, popcorn will be sold at the same price across India. Earlier, popcorn was being sold at different prices in all states of India.
Former Chief Economic Advisor of India Krishna Murthy said in a statement on the social networking website X that complications are a joy for officials but a nightmare for the public. This decision will not be more effective in collecting taxes, but it will cause inconvenience to the citizens.
