Feb 27: In a stern rebuke, India’s highest judicial body has served a contempt-of-court notice upon Patanjali Ayurveda and its managing director, Acharya Balkrishna, for alleged violations of their commitment to abstain from promoting unsubstantiated drug claims and disparaging other medical systems.” — Justice Hima Kohli and Ahnasuddin Amanullah.
Court Restrictions and Cautionary Measures Imposed
“The Supreme Court has barred Patanjali from advertising or branding its medications intended for specific illnesses or health conditions, citing the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisement) Act 1954 and regulations enacted thereunder. Additionally, the court cautioned the respondents and their representatives against issuing negative statements regarding any medical system through various forms of media.”—Justice Hima Kohli and Ahnasuddin Amanullah.
Indian Medical Association Accuses Patanjali of Smear Campaign Against Modern Medicine and Vaccinations
“The legal action initiated by the Indian Medical Association accused Patanjali of engaging in a defamatory campaign against conventional medicine and immunizations.”—
Patanjali Counsel Gives Undertaking to Comply With Laws Relating to Advertising and Branding
“During a hearing on November 21, 2023, Patanjali’s legal representative assured the court that they would refrain from breaking any laws pertaining to product promotion and marketing, including those related to advertising and branding, and would avoid releasing misleading statements concerning the effectiveness of their medicines or attacking alternative medical systems.”—
Senior Advocate PS Patwalia Highlights Continued Violations by Patanjali
“At the Supreme Court session held on Tuesday, Senior Advocate PS Patwalia argued that despite giving an undertaking, the Ayurveda Firm persisted in publishing ads touting the benefits of their medicines, which contravenes the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act.”—
Judge Expresses Anger Over Company Claims
“Upon learning of these ongoing infractions, Justice Amanullah expressed his displeasure at Patanjali’s actions and suggested that the court may need to impose a severe judgment.”—
Centre Responds to Petition Filed Two Years Prior
“When addressing the case during the afternoon proceedings, Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj stated that the central government would submit a comprehensive response after consulting multiple agencies responsible for verifying the assertions presented by the ayurveda firm.”—
