Patanjali misleading ads case: SC raps all FMCG companies indulging in misleading ads

Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday expanded the case of misleading advertisements against Ramdev's Patanjali Ayurved, directing the government and authorities to take action against all FMCG companies indulging in misleading ads.

The court also grilled the Central government, asking for explanations regarding its oversight of misleading advertisements and the enforcement of relevant regulations, such as those under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules 1945. 

Justice Kohli said that the Ministry of Consumer Affairs and Ministry of Information should also be impleaded.

During a session presided over by Justices Hima Kohli and Ahsanuddin Amanullah, the court highlighted the need to examine actions taken by various ministries to curb abuses under the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act and related statutes, dating back to 2018. 

The court's approach suggests a comprehensive crackdown on misleading advertisements across the sector.

The bench also pointed out how news channels are reporting Supreme Court proceedings against Ramdev, while simultaneously running Patanjali advertisements on the same screen.

The court reviewed the matter and noted a significant disparity in the size of the apology compared to the initial advertisements. 

Justice Kohli asked, "Is the apology the same size as your advertisements?"

Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Ramdev, informed the court that a public apology had been issued in 60 publications. However, the justices were not satisfied and instructed that larger apologies should be issued.

The bench underlined the importance of consumer protection, especially concerning vulnerable groups such as children.

This matter has been scheduled for further hearing on April 30, by which time the court expects the Central government to provide a detailed response to the issues raised, particularly concerning misleading advertisements and the regulatory framework governing them.