Court rejects apology of Baba Ramdev, Acharya Balkrishna in misleading advertisements case

The Supreme Court declined to accept the unconditional apology offered by Baba Ramdev and Patanjali Ayurved MD Acharya Balkrishna in the case concerning misleading advertisements.

In firm remarks, the court stated that the apology seemed merely “on paper” and was made due to their dire situation. Justice Hima Kohli emphasized that their actions constituted a deliberate violation of their undertaking.

The court criticized their conduct as deliberate disobedience, refusing to acknowledge the apology. It deemed their actions as a willful violation of the agreement.

Despite Baba Ramdev’s affidavit expressing “unconditional and unqualified” regret, the court emphasized the importance of sending a clear message to society. Additionally, the court noted that the individuals involved first sent their affidavits to the media, indicating their inclination towards publicity.

Baba Ramdev expressed sincere regret in his affidavit, pledging to uphold the law and justice. He also assured that no advertisements claiming to cure diseases would be published and apologized for a press conference held in November 2023.

Similarly, Acharya Balkrishna pledged to prevent such misleading advertisements in the future and promised to be more vigilant.

Previously, the court had instructed both individuals to submit fresh affidavits and appear in person. This came after the company failed to respond to a show-cause notice in contempt proceedings regarding misleading advertisements.

The court had expressed prima facie evidence of a violation of its November 2023 order by Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna.