Supreme Court Summons Ramdev Over Patanjali’s Deceptive Advertisements

• The Supreme Court has issued a summons to yoga guru Ramdev of Patanjali Ayurved, concerning misleading advertisements issued by the company.
• The court’s action comes after Patanjali failed to respond to a contempt notice regarding the advertisements’ claims about medicinal efficacy.
• The bench also summoned Patanjali’s managing director, Acharya Balkrishna, in connection with the matter.
• The court emphasized that both Ramdev and Balkrishna were prima facie in violation of Sections 3 and 4 of the Drugs and Remedies Act, of misleading advertisements of medicines.
• The court’s actions stem from a petition filed by the Indian Medical Association (IMA), which alleges a smear campaign by Ramdev against the vaccination drive and modern medicines.

The Supreme Court has issued a summons to yoga guru Ramdev, co-founder of Patanjali Ayurved, concerning misleading advertisements issued by the company. The court’s action comes after Patanjali failed to respond to a contempt notice regarding the advertisements’ claims about medicinal efficacy.

A bench comprising Justices Hima Kohli and Ahsanuddin Amanullah also summoned Patanjali’s managing director, Acharya Balkrishna, in connection with the matter. The court expressed dissatisfaction with Patanjali’s lack of response despite holding a press conference after the previous order.

The court emphasized that both Ramdev and Balkrishna were prima facie in violation of Sections 3 and 4 of the Drugs and Remedies Act, of misleading advertisements of medicines. Consequently, a contempt notice has been issued to Ramdev, who has been directed to explain to the court.

Senior lawyer Mukul Rohatgi, representing Patanjali Ayurved, opposed the court’s move, questioning Ramdev’s involvement in the matter. However, the court remained firm in its stance, asserting its authority and emphasizing the seriousness of the issue.

The court’s actions stem from a petition filed by the Indian Medical Association (IMA), which alleges a smear campaign by Ramdev against the vaccination drive and modern medicines. This ongoing legal battle underscores the clash between traditional and modern medical practices, as well as the regulatory challenges posed by misleading advertisements in the healthcare sector.

Previously, on February 27, the Supreme Court issued a contempt notice to Patanjali, cautioning against making derogatory statements about any system of medicine in the media. The court’s proactive approach highlights its commitment to upholding legal standards and protecting public health interests.

As the case progresses, it will likely prompt further scrutiny of advertising practices within the pharmaceutical industry and the responsibilities of prominent figures like Ramdev in ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines.

(With inputs from agencies)