The Supreme Court of India has taken a stern stance against Patanjali Ayurved and its Managing Director Acharya Balkrishna for violating the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954. Despite giving assurances to the court in November, Patanjali continued to publish advertisements that contravened the Act’s provisions.

A Bench comprising Justices Hima Kohli and Ahsanuddin Amanullah expressed dismay over Patanjali’s disregard for its undertaking to refrain from branding its products as offering “permanent relief” for ailments such as obesity, blood pressure, and asthma. Justice Amanullah emphasized the ambiguity of the term “permanent relief,” asserting that it implies either death or cure, leaving no room for a third interpretation.

The Court chastised the government for its inaction over the past two years, despite the Act clearly prohibiting misleading advertisements. Justice Amanullah highlighted the necessity for urgent action to curb such deceptive practices, stressing the unfortunate situation resulting from prolonged negligence.

In response, the government law officer, Mr. Nataraj, pledged to submit a comprehensive affidavit and noted that the responsibility for implementing the Act rested with the States.

During the hearing, the Court reiterated its directive to Patanjali, instructing the company to abstain from making casual statements to the media regarding the effectiveness of its medicinal products or disparaging remarks about other medical disciplines like allopathy.

The contempt notice issued by the Supreme Court underscores the imperative of upholding legal and ethical standards in advertising, particularly in the healthcare sector. It serves as a reminder to corporations and authorities alike of their obligations to ensure transparency and accuracy in promotional practices, safeguarding public health and consumer rights.