The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): On Tuesday, the Supreme Court questioned Patanjali Ayurved Ltd about whether the sale of its 14 products, whose manufacturing licenses were suspended by the Uttarakhand State Licensing Authority last month, had ceased. The apex court, which reserved its order on the contempt notice issued to yoga guru Ramdev, his aide Balkrishna, and Patanjali Ayurved Ltd in the misleading advertisements case, was informed by senior advocate Balbir Singh, representing Patanjali, that the sale of these products had indeed stopped.
A bench comprising Justices Hima Kohli and Ahsanuddin Amanullah inquired if Patanjali’s stockists had also halted storing and selling the products. The bench emphasized the need for an affidavit confirming this cessation. Singh assured the bench that an affidavit would be filed.
“We are proposing to reserve orders, but your affidavit will make a difference,” the bench stated. It noted that Patanjali’s counsel had sought time to file affidavits detailing steps taken to recall advertisements and products whose licenses were suspended. These affidavits are to be submitted within three weeks.
The bench also acknowledged Patanjali’s right to challenge the suspension order before the appropriate forum. “Orders are reserved on the contempt notice issued to respondents five to seven (Patanjali Ayurved Ltd, Balkrishna, and Ramdev),” the bench stated, adding that Ramdev and Balkrishna need not be present until further orders.
Justice Amanullah highlighted the public’s right to be well-informed, noting Ramdev’s significant following. “Please don’t take the public for granted,” the bench cautioned. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta recognized Ramdev’s contributions to yoga and Ayurveda, with Justice Kohli adding that Ramdev’s promotion of yoga on an international platform is notable, although the issue with Patanjali’s products is separate.
The bench granted a final four-week extension to all state licensing authorities to file affidavits on actions taken against misleading advertisements and ensuring public health safety.
The Uttarakhand State Licensing Authority had previously suspended the manufacturing licenses of 14 Patanjali products. The Supreme Court is hearing a plea filed by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) in 2022, alleging a smear campaign by Patanjali against the COVID-19 vaccination drive and modern medicine.
Patanjali had assured the Supreme Court in November 2022 that it would comply with all laws related to advertising and branding and refrain from making casual statements claiming medicinal efficacy or criticizing other medical systems. The bench, irked by non-compliance, issued notices to show cause why contempt proceedings should not be initiated.