The Supreme Court has given Yoga guru Ramdev and Patanjali Ayurved Ltd MD Balkrishna Acharya a week to address alleged contempt for misleading advertisements. Their lawyers offered a public apology, prompting the court to adjourn the matter to April 23 for further hearing.
Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Ramdev and Balkrishna, expressed willingness to issue a public apology. The court emphasized the need for a connection between the defendants and the judicial process, asking them to come forward for an interaction.
Ramdev and Balkrishna have tendered unconditional apologies for breaching the court’s previous order, which prohibited violations of advertising laws and exaggerated medicinal claims. In response to assurances made by Patanjali’s counsel in November 2023, the court noted the breach and initiated contempt proceedings.
The court’s decision underscores the importance of accountability in advertising practices and highlights the judiciary’s commitment to upholding legal standards in public statements regarding product efficacy. The case reflects the judiciary’s vigilance in ensuring compliance with its directives and preserving consumer rights.
