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Yoga Guru Ramdev’s Patanjali found itself in the legal spotlight recently, as it tendered an apology to the Supreme Court following the apex court’s stern reaction to the company’s failure to respond to a contempt notice regarding misleading advertisements. This development unfolded just one day after the Supreme Court’s strong reaction, which resulted in summoning Ramdev and Balkrishna, the managing director of Patanjali Ayurved, to appear in court on April 2.
In a significant turn of events, an affidavit was submitted to the court by Balkrishna, expressing the company’s utmost respect for the rule of law and offering an “unconditional apology” for the oversight. Balkrishna affirmed that Patanjali Ayurved would take stringent measures to ensure that such misleading advertisements are not disseminated in the future, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and ethical conduct.
Furthermore, Balkrishna clarified the company’s intentions, emphasizing that their primary goal is to promote healthier lifestyles among citizens through the consumption of Patanjali products. These products, he noted, are crafted based on ancient literature and materials supplemented by rigorous Ayurvedic research, aiming to address lifestyle ailments and improve overall well-being.
In a notable aspect of the affidavit, Balkrishna criticized the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, labeling it as “outdated.” He pointed to the lack of scientific evidence in Ayurveda research at the time the legislation was last updated, highlighting the advancements made through modern scientific research in the field. The affidavit asserted that Patanjali now possesses evidence-based scientific data, including clinical research in Ayurveda, which underscores the efficacy of their products in addressing various health concerns.
The submission of this affidavit reflects Patanjali’s willingness to engage with regulatory authorities and address concerns raised by the judiciary in a proactive and transparent manner. It also underscores the importance of upholding ethical standards in advertising practices and respecting the legal framework governing such activities.
As the legal proceedings progress, all eyes will be on the Supreme Court’s response to the affidavit and the measures taken by Patanjali Ayurved to rectify the situation. This episode serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding the intersection of traditional knowledge, modern science, and regulatory compliance in the healthcare and wellness industry.