The GST hike on caramel popcorn to 18%, announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has sparked outrage due to the complex tax slabs for popcorn: 5%, 12%, and 18%. The debate centers on the distinction between salted (taxed as 'namkeen') and caramelised popcorn (taxed as 'mithai').

India's move to tax popcorn differently based on its sugar or spice content has drawn criticism from the opposition and sparked social media outrage, with two former government economic advisers questioning the tax system introduced in 2017.

Social media users slam country’s excessive regulations and high taxation after government’s move to impose three-tier tax on popcorn.

Social media erupted with a wave of memes and humour after the Indian GST Council confirmed an 18% tax on caramelised popcorn, categorising it as sugar confectionery.

The GST Council's popcorn tax classification for popcorn raises questions about ingredient-based taxation, sparking criticism from economists and consumers alike.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor mocked the GST Council's decision to impose varied popcorn tax slabs, sparking criticism of the system's complexity. Congress leaders called the move absurd, highlighting widespread GST evasion,

Popcorn tax clarified! Ready-to-eat at 5%, pre-packaged at 12%, and caramel at 18%. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman explains the rationale

The GST Council's recent clarification on popcorn taxation has sparked a social media debate and criticism from the opposition. Congress questioned the "absurdity" and growing complexity of the GST system,

The GST Council's proposal of different rates on popcorn—5% for salted, 12% for branded, and 18% for caramel—has sparked widespread criticism. Former economic advisers slammed the decision's complexity and minimal revenue gain,