The Supreme Court strongly rebuked Baba Ramdev and Patanjali Ayurveda for violating directives on misleading advertisements despite an earlier undertaking.
In a contempt hearing on Tuesday, both were directed to appear in person, where Ramdev offered an unconditional apology, deemed by the court as mere “lip service.”
The court criticized Patanjali, stating they owe an apology to the nation for their misleading claims. Additionally, the court questioned the government’s inaction amid Patanjali’s assertion that there were no Covid remedies in allopathy.
Granting a final chance, the court instructed Ramdev and Patanjali’s MD, Acharya Balkrishna, to file fresh affidavits within a week, warning of perjury charges for submitting allegedly fabricated documents.
This follows the court’s dissatisfaction over Patanjali’s failure to respond to previous notices, despite assurances to halt misleading advertisements.
Previously, the Supreme Court had directed Patanjali to cease all ads claiming to treat ailments specified in the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954.
The court’s admonishment came in response to a plea by the Indian Medical Association against Ramdev’s criticism of modern medicine.
In response to the court’s reprimand, Patanjali submitted an affidavit expressing regret, emphasizing its intention to promote a healthier lifestyle. This development follows the court’s earlier directive in November 2023, instructing Patanjali to cease misleading claims against modern medicine.