As with every year, the moment the budget speech concluded, social media erupted. Once again, there was an avalanche of memes, posts, and comments. Some expressed joy, others displeasure, while others were simply baffled by the government's decisions. Especially the decision regarding tobacco and cigarettes sparked a heated debate on social media. There was widespread frustration over why cigarette prices were raised so significantly while beedis were left untouched.
The government has increased the GST on harmful products like cigarettes and tobacco to 40%. Meanwhile, the GST on beedis has been reduced to 18%. Additionally, the GST on the tendu leaves used in making beedis has been slashed from 18% to 5%. The decision is clear—beedis are becoming cheaper, whereas cigarettes and tobacco products are becoming more expensive.
Now, the question arises on social media: If both are harmful to health, why is there such strictness on cigarettes and leniency on beedis? Is a cigarette more harmful, or is there another reason behind this decision?
In the midst of this, a flood of memes continued. Some showed the lamentation of cigarette smokers, others mocked those who escaped with their beedis 'intact.' Many memes raised questions about the budget's decision towards the government.
Let's delve into some entertaining memes and posts surrounding this decision.
The Agony of a Cigarette Smoker
Source: aajtak
Source: aajtak
The Plight of Cigarette Consumers!
Source: aajtak
Source: aajtak
Why Did Beedis Become Cheaper?
The cut in GST on beedis is seen as a step to provide relief to the domestic beedi industry. According to trade unions, the industry employs around 6 to 7 million people, with women constituting the majority. Data from the Ministry of Labour and Employment indicates that close to 4 million people are directly involved with the beedi industry. Reducing the tax burden is thus viewed as a move to save jobs.
