New Delhi, Apr 2: The Supreme Court issued a stern reprimand to yoga guru Ramdev and Patanjali Ayurved’s Managing Director Acharya Balkrishna on Tuesday for their “absolute defiance” in failing to file proper affidavits of compliance in a misleading advertisement case, breaking “every barrier” in the process.
The court also expressed disapproval of Balkrishna’s statement labeling the Drugs and Cosmetics (Magic Remedies) Act as “archaic.” Justices Hima Kohli and Ahsanuddin Amanullah, comprising the bench, emphasized the importance of respecting court orders, stating, “Not just the Supreme Court, every order passed by the courts across this country has to be respected…this is absolute defiance.”
The court criticized the government for seemingly ignoring Patanjali’s claims about COVID remedies in allopathy. Senior advocate Balbir Singh, representing Ramdev, offered an unconditional apology, while Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured the court of assistance in resolving the issue.
The bench granted Ramdev and Balkrishna a final opportunity to file their affidavits within one week. The matter was adjourned to April 10, with directions for both individuals to be present before the court. Last month, Balkrishna had apologized to the apex court for advertising the firm’s products’ medicinal efficacy.
Patanjali Ayurved Ltd had previously assured the court that it would not violate any laws, especially regarding advertising or branding of products. However, the recent developments have brought the company under the court’s scrutiny, highlighting the need for compliance with legal regulations.
