In a scathing rebuke, the Supreme Court of India has unleashed severe criticism against Patanjali founders Ramdev and Balkrishna for their company’s misleading advertisements. Dismissing their apologies as insincere and deliberate violations, the bench, led by Justice Hima Kohli and Justice A Amanullah, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Uttarakhand licensing authority’s inaction and the Centre’s response. The court denounced the founders’ attempt to evade court appearances and emphasized the need for accountability, with orders for suspension of three officers and a stern warning to the state’s licensing authority.
The court’s condemnation extended beyond Patanjali, highlighting systemic failures and lapses in regulatory oversight. It condemned the licensing authority’s complacency, accusing it of being complicit with Patanjali’s misconduct. Moreover, the court emphasized the broader societal implications, questioning the safety and efficacy of Patanjali’s products and the impact on consumers’ health. With a deadline set for April 16, the court signaled its intent to hold both the company and regulatory officials accountable, sending a clear message against corporate deceit and administrative negligence.
