Supreme Court Criticizes Uttarakhand Govt, Declines Patanjali Ayurved’s Apology in Misleading Advertising Case: The Supreme Court has reprimanded the Uttarakhand government for its inaction against Patanjali Ayurved over misleading advertisements. The court refused to accept the apology from Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna, directing further hearing on April 16. Justices Hima Kohli and Ahsanudding Amanullah expressed concern over innocent people using the medicines, believing they would cure diseases, and emphasized the need to address misleading advertisements by FMCG companies.
The court criticized the government for not taking action despite receiving complaints and instructed the suspension of officers responsible for overseeing the matter. It also directed district Ayurvedic and Unani officers from 2018 onwards to submit replies on actions taken. The apex court emphasized the importance of sending a message to society against violating court orders.
The court dismissed the apology, considering it a deliberate violation of the undertaking. It noted the State Licensing Authority’s lack of action over the years, describing it as “appalling.” Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Ramdev and Balkrishna, read an affidavit tendering an unconditional apology and stating they would uphold the law in the future.
In a previous affidavit, Baba Ramdev expressed regret for the breach and assured compliance with the law. The court had earlier criticized their apology, stating that they had violated their undertakings. The case highlights the need for stringent action against misleading advertisements to protect consumers’ interests and uphold the law.
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