The age-old debate between traditional Ayurveda and modern allopathy practices in India has once again come to the fore, with yoga guru Baba Ramdev and his Patanjali Ayurved empire facing the ire of the Supreme Court over misleading advertisements.
In a major development, the apex court has ordered the personal appearance of both Ramdev and Patanjali MD Acharya Balkrishna to answer for contempt proceedings initiated against them. As reported by multiple media outlets, the SC took strong objection to Patanjali continuing its advertising claims about curing serious diseases, despite assurances given last year that such ads would cease.
It all began with a writ petition filed by the Indian Medical Association last year, pointing out Patanjali’s “continuous, systematic spread of misinformation” disparaging allopathy through ads making false cure claims. While the SC had earlier reprimanded Patanjali and even warned of Rs. 1 crore penalty, it seems the bold advertisements did not stop.
This led to the contempt notice against Patanjali and Balkrishna last month. But when the company failed to submit a proper response, the bench of Justices Kohli and Amanullah took the drastic step of summoning the duo to appear personally. Some key exchanges during the hearing are noteworthy:
– When asked about the missing response, Patanjali’s counsel Mukul Rohatgi replied it was “very short”. Justice Kohli shot back it was “not good enough”.
– Rohatgi’s claim of “discussion with client” was questioned by Justice Amanullah: “And you were in a hurry?”
– Justice Kohli declared Ramdev’s presence was needed since he too had violated laws by endorsing the misleading ads.
The SC has clearly run out of patience with Patanjali’s attitude. But this is also a reminder that our legal system will not let any entity—however influential—get away with violating laws and prior assurances. Ayurveda and allopathy each have their own place; but public health cannot be compromised for business gains.
Meanwhile, the investors seem to be taking note too, with Patanjali Foods shares dipping 3.5% after the news. While the final outcome awaits Ramdev and Balkrishna’s personal appearance, it appears this long-running legal battle may be finally coming to a head. Traditional medicine has much to offer; but facts and science cannot be replaced by unfounded claims. As the case resumes, all eyes will be on how India’s highest court ensures the right balance.
