The Supreme Court has issued a strong rebuke to Patanjali, warning that a fine of Rs 1 crore per product may be imposed if the company continues its promotion of misleading claims in advertisements.
This decision comes in response to concerns raised by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) regarding Patanjali Ayurved’s alleged campaign against modern medicine and the ongoing vaccination drive.
The bench, comprising Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Prashant Kumar Mishra, directed Patanjali Ayurved to immediately halt the dissemination of what the court deemed to be “false” and “misleading” claims in its advertisements regarding the effectiveness of its herbal medicines.
The court signaled the possibility of imposing a significant fine of ₹1 crore for each product that promotes false curative claims for specific ailments. This reflects the court’s commitment to addressing the potential harm caused by misleading medical advertisements.
Expressing serious concern over the widespread issue of deceptive medical advertisements, the court emphasized the adverse effects on public health and the overall integrity of the healthcare system. It called on the counsel representing the Center to devise a solution for this concern, underscoring the importance of accountability in promoting healthcare products.
During the hearing, the court criticized Ramdev for disparaging remarks against allopathy and its practitioners, emphasizing the need for restraint in public statements. Notices were issued on August 23, 2022, to the Union Health Ministry, Ministry of Ayush, and Patanjali Ayurved, indicating the court’s proactive stance in addressing the IMA’s concerns. The case is scheduled for a hearing on February 5 next year, shedding light on the broader challenge of upholding the credibility of medical information in the public domain.
The internet has quickly reacted to the Supreme Court’s order against Patanjali’s misleading advertisements.
