The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has fact-checked senior journalist Rajdeep Sardesai after his claim that caramel popcorn is taxed at 18% under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime.Responding to Sardesai’s statement on social media, the CBIC clarified that caramel popcorn  along with other ready-to-eat varieties  falls under a 12% GST slab, not 18%. The board emphasized the importance of accurate information, especially when it concerns tax-related matters that affect consumers directly.

The clarification quickly gained attention online, sparking discussions about misinformation and the responsibility of public figures to share verified details. While some social media users appreciated the CBIC’s timely response, others highlighted how such instances underline the need for careful communication in the digital age.This episode serves as a reminder that even minor factual inaccuracies can spread quickly  and that credible, verified information remains the cornerstone of responsible journalism and public discourse.