The Uttarakhand government disclosed to the Supreme Court the suspension of manufacturing licenses for 14 products by Patanjali Ayurved Ltd and Divya Pharmacy, owned by Baba Ramdev. This action followed repeated violations, particularly in misleading advertisements, under Rule 159(1) of The Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945. The suspended products include Swasari Gold, Swasari Vati, Bronchom, and others.
Furthermore, a criminal complaint was lodged against Ramdev, Acharya Balkrishna, and the mentioned entities under the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act 1954. The State Licensing Authority (SLA) tendered an apology to the Supreme Court, expressing regret for any unintended non-compliance.
The affidavit, submitted in response to a plea by the Indian Medical Association concerning Patanjali’s campaign against COVID-19 vaccination and modern medicine, emphasized the SLA’s concern for his career and family. The Supreme Court had previously rejected a second apology from Ramdev and others involved in the matter.
This development underscores heightened scrutiny not only on Patanjali but also on FMCG companies making false health claims in their advertisements. The Supreme Court bench, led by Justices Hima Kohli and Ahsanuddin Amanullah, is set to review the case, reflecting broader concerns about misleading marketing practices in the healthcare sector.
