- The District Ayurvedic and Unani Officer of Haridwar has taken a decisive step by filing a criminal complaint against Divya Pharmacy, and Patanjali Ayurved Limited.
- The Uttarakhand licensing authority has suspended the manufacturing licenses of 14 products made by Patanjali’s Divya Pharmacy for repeatedly publishing misleading advertisements about their efficacy.
- The Indian Medical Association has raised concerns regarding the company’s marketing strategies, particularly in light of the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act, which prohibits the advertisement of products claiming to cure specific diseases.
- Patanjali, in response to mounting legal pressure, had previously assured the Supreme Court of its commitment to compliance.
- The company pledged to refrain from making unsubstantiated claims about the medicinal efficacy of its products and vowed not to advertise or endorse them in contravention of the law.
- Ramdev acknowledged the lapse on his firm’s part and issued public apologies through newspaper advertisements.
In a significant development highlighting concerns over advertising practices in the pharmaceutical industry, the District Ayurvedic and Unani Officer of Haridwar has taken a decisive step by filing a criminal complaint against Swami Ramdev, Acharya Balkrishna, Divya Pharmacy, and Patanjali Ayurved Limited. This legal action, brought under Sections 3, 4, and 7 of the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954, marks a notable response to alleged violations related to the promotion of medicinal products.
At the heart of this matter lies the Indian Medical Association’s plea for regulatory intervention against Patanjali. The association has raised concerns regarding the company’s marketing strategies, particularly in light of the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act, which prohibits the advertisement of products claiming to cure specific diseases such as diabetes, heart ailments, hypertension, and obesity.
The Supreme Court’s intervention further underscores the gravity of the situation. In an order dated April 10, the apex court directed officials, including the Joint Director of the State Licensing Authority and all District Ayurvedic and Unani Officers in Haridwar since 2018, to submit affidavits elucidating their failure to address the issue effectively. This judicial scrutiny aims to hold accountable those responsible for overseeing compliance with pharmaceutical regulations.
Patanjali, in response to mounting legal pressure, had previously assured the Supreme Court of its commitment to compliance. The company pledged to refrain from making unsubstantiated claims about the medicinal efficacy of its products and vowed not to advertise or endorse them in contravention of the law. Additionally, they undertook not to disparage any medical system in the media, signalling a commitment to responsible marketing practices.
The State Licensing Authority (SLA) has reiterated its dedication to pursuing necessary actions against Divya Pharmacy and Patanjali Ayurved Ltd. This proactive stance by regulatory authorities reflects a broader commitment to upholding industry standards and ensuring accountability within the pharmaceutical sector.
As legal proceedings unfold, it becomes increasingly evident that regulatory bodies are taking a firm stance against deceptive advertising practices. This case serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of adhering to regulations aimed at safeguarding public health and preventing the dissemination of false or misleading information in the healthcare domain.
In conclusion, the initiation of legal action against Patanjali represents a significant step towards enforcing regulatory standards and holding accountable those who flout them. By addressing violations of the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act, authorities are actively working to preserve the integrity of the pharmaceutical industry and safeguard consumer interests.
(With inputs from agencies)
