Apex Court Rebukes Patanjali Ayurved for Disregarding Directives, Issues Contempt Notice Amidst Criticism of Government’s Inaction
New Delhi, 27-02-2024 : The Supreme Court has taken a stern stance against Patanjali Ayurved and its Managing Director Acharya Balakrishna for persisting in disseminating misleading advertisements despite assurances made to the Court previously. The Court, noting the company’s disregard for its earlier directives, issued a contempt notice, questioning why punitive action should not be taken against them. This action stems from Patanjali’s continuous promotion of medicinal cures through deceptive advertisements, contrary to their pledge made in November of the preceding year.
Expressing dissatisfaction not only with Patanjali’s actions but also with the government’s inaction in addressing misleading advertisements, the Apex Court reprimanded both parties. It particularly criticized the Central government for its failure to tackle such advertisements despite the petition filed as far back as 2022.
The Court, in response to the persistent disregard for its orders, restrained Patanjali Ayurved from advertising or branding products purporting to treat diseases specified in the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1954. Additionally, the Court cautioned against making any statements detrimental to any system of medicine.
The case arose from a petition filed by the Indian Medical Association (IMA), which sought to curb negative advertisements targeting the vaccination drive and modern medicine. The Bench, consisting of Justice Hima Kohli and Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah, rebuked Patanjali for misleading claims lacking empirical evidence, cautioning that such actions mislead the public.
Furthermore, the Court questioned the Union Government about its actions under the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1954 regarding Patanjali’s advertisements. Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah emphasized the gravity of misleading advertisements, stating that such practices would not be tolerated.
Previously, the Supreme Court had directed Patanjali Ayurved to abstain from publishing false advertisements and cautioned against discrediting allopathy and its practitioners during the pandemic. However, Patanjali’s persistent violations led to today’s contempt notice.
The Court’s previous warning of imposing a hefty fine for each false advertisement remains in effect, highlighting the seriousness of the matter. Despite debates surrounding modern versus traditional medicine, the Court emphasized the need to address misleading advertisements without undermining any medical system.
The ongoing legal battle underscores the importance of responsible advertising and upholding legal directives in promoting healthcare products. With the matter now under the Court’s scrutiny, the future implications for both Patanjali and the regulation of advertisements in the healthcare sector remain to be seen.
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