Supreme Court Refuses Apology from Baba Ramdev and Patanjali Ayurved MD in Misleading Advertisements Case

In a separate development, the court reprimanded Uttarakhand's state licensing authority officials for undue delays in addressing complaints against Divya Pharmacy

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In a significant development, the Supreme Court declined to accept the unconditional apology tendered by Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna, Managing Director of Patanjali Ayurved, in the misleading advertisements case. The court delivered strongly worded observations, asserting that the apology appeared to be issued merely because their “back is against the wall.”

The apex court pointed out that Patanjali Ayurved allegedly continued to publish misleading advertisements despite previously undertaking to desist from such practices. Justice Hima Kohli remarked that the apology presented was merely on paper and emphasized that their conduct amounted to wilful disobedience.

“We decline to accept this, we consider it a deliberate violation of the undertaking,” Justice Kohli stated, highlighting the seriousness of the matter.

Despite senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi reading out Baba Ramdev’s affidavit expressing “unconditional and unqualified” apology, the court remained steadfast in its stance, stressing the need for societal accountability. Additionally, the court criticized the respondents for initially sharing their affidavits with the media, implying a preference for publicity over genuine contrition.

The Supreme Court scheduled further action against Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna for April 16, signaling its intent to address the issue decisively.

In a separate development, the court reprimanded Uttarakhand’s state licensing authority officials for undue delays in addressing complaints against Divya Pharmacy. The officials were chastised for neglecting their duties since 2018, highlighting systemic lapses in regulatory enforcement.

Reflecting on his stance during Tuesday’s proceedings, Baba Ramdev expressed sincere regret for the lapse, assuring the court that similar transgressions would not recur in the future.

The refusal to accept the apology underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding accountability and transparency, particularly in cases involving public interest and consumer rights. As the legal battle unfolds, it underscores the need for stricter enforcement of advertising regulations and vigilant oversight to safeguard consumers from deceptive practices.

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