The GST council is set to roll out its newest two-tier tax slab rates from September 22. Announced by the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the body took this major decision ahead of the year-end festivities, which results in a boom in travel, retail, and investments.

Ranging from 5% rates to a 40% slap on sin goods like tobacco and cigarettes, the GST 2.0 reform also brought with it a meme fest online. From movie references to election oversight, the Internet did not let this major industry update slide. Here’s a compilation that proves social media has a meme for every situation.

Caramel popcorn call back

Referring to the previous update on the tax rate on caramel popcorn, the memes welcomed the sin goods into the high-taxed category. While salted or spiced popcorn will attract 5% rates, caramel popcorn remains under the confectionery category and is taxed at 18%.

Source: X

Upcoming Bihar election

A major move impacting both consumers and companies, the new GST rates come just weeks ahead of the Bihar election. Seen a dual-edged political tactic, memes try and predict the election verdict.

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Source: X

Hrithik Roshan meme for every situation

Comparing the characters played by Hrithik Roshan in two movies, Super 30 and War 2, the Internet could not help but compare the previous hike in GST rates with the newest announcement of rate cuts.

Source: X

One for Gen-Zs

Referring to the iconic scene from the Harry Potter movie franchise, a meme showed the protagonist running into a wall to reach a magical destination, but looking all confused. Noting the potential increase in prices of junk food and carbonated drinks, memes pointed out how this might affect the generation.

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What if they had done this before?

Commenting that had the government rolled out this reform earlier, netizens were quick to appreciate the 40% tax slab on sin goods and a resultant 0% GST on health insurance.

‘Healthy nation = empty pocket’

Remarking on the 40% tax slab yet again, a user on X (formerly Twitter) pointed out India’s step towards a healthier nation after promoting no smoking, lesser sugary drinks, and reducing online betting – all through steeping GST rates.

Increased base price

Replying to the loophole of the input tax credit, questions rose that said, “What if the big companies increase the base price to match the reduced gst?”

Source: X

7 crore!

If you read this in Amitabh Bachchan’s voice, you know which tax slab this meme is referring to. Commenting on the highest tax slab of 40% levied on carbonated sugary drinks, this price tag was attached to such beverages sold inside movie halls.