The Supreme Court has rejected the apologies filed by Patanjali founders Ramdev and Balkrishna for their company's misleading ads, saying "we are not blind" and "we do not want to be generous." The court also criticized the Uttarakhand licensing authority for not taking action against Patanjali and demanded the suspension of three officers. The court's strong statements come after the company's attempts to apologize were seen as insincere and the government's failure to act against the violations.
Patanjali's Misleading Ads: Supreme Court Rejects Apologies, Demands Accountability
Background
Patanjali Ayurveda Limited is a prominent Indian FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods) company founded by Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna. Over the years, the company has come under scrutiny for making unsubstantiated claims about the efficacy of its products.
In 2019, the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) found Patanjali guilty of misleading advertising for its "Divya Madhumita" hair oil. The company claimed that the product could cure baldness, a claim that was not supported by scientific evidence.
Supreme Court's Rejection of Apologies
In response to the ASCI's findings, Patanjali filed an appeal in the Supreme Court. However, in a hearing on February 27, 2023, the Court dismissed the company's apologies. "We are not blind," Justice DY Chandrachud remarked. "We do not want to be generous."
The Court also criticized the Uttarakhand licensing authority for failing to take action against Patanjali for its violations. "This is a serious matter," Justice Chandrachud said. "Three officers should be suspended immediately."
Implications
The Supreme Court's strong stance sends a clear message to businesses about the importance of truthful advertising. It also highlights the need for government agencies to take swift action against companies that engage in misconduct.
Top 5 FAQs on Patanjali's Misleading Ads
1. What happened in the recent Supreme Court hearing? The Court rejected Patanjali's apologies for its misleading ads and demanded the suspension of three Uttarakhand licensing officers for failing to take action.
2. Which products have been found to contain false claims? Patanjali's "Divya Madhumita" hair oil was found guilty of misleading advertising by ASCI.
3. What penalties could Patanjali face? The Supreme Court has not yet imposed any penalties, but the company could face fines or other legal action.
4. What should consumers do if they have used misleading products? Consumers can file complaints with consumer forums or the Advertising Standards Council of India.
5. What measures is the government taking to prevent misleading advertising? The government is reviewing its advertising regulations and considering imposing stricter penalties for violations.
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