“Baba Ramdev and Patanjali MD Acharya Balkrishna Appear in Supreme Court Over Misleading Ads Case”

Yoga guru Baba Ramdev and Patanjali Ayurved’s managing director Acharya Balkrishna have complied with the Supreme Court’s directive to appear in person for contempt proceedings related to misleading advertisements.

The court had summoned Ramdev to appear within two weeks, following a hearing in February where it criticized Patanjali for failing to respond to notices regarding potential contempt.

During the February hearing, the Supreme Court rebuked Patanjali for continuing to publish deceptive advertisements despite previously promising not to do so.

Justices Hima Kohli and Ahsanuddin Amanullah issued a notice to Ramdev as well, questioning why contempt proceedings shouldn’t be initiated against him.

The court directed Patanjali to cease all advertisements claiming to treat ailments specified in the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954.

Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi, representing Patanjali Ayurved, faced the court’s criticism, with the judges questioning the company’s defiance of their orders.

The court’s scrutiny stemmed from a plea by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) alleging Ramdev’s criticism of modern medicine. In response, Patanjali submitted an unconditional apology, asserting its aim to promote healthier living through Ayurveda and alleviate the strain on the healthcare system.

Previously, in November 2023, the Supreme Court had instructed Patanjali Ayurved to refrain from making misleading claims and statements against modern medicine, to which Patanjali had pledged compliance.