In a recent development, the Supreme Court has chastised the Uttarakhand State Licensing Authority for its inaction regarding misleading advertisements by Patanjali Ayurved Limited.
The court, comprising Justices Hima Kohli and Ahsanuddin Amanullah, expressed dissatisfaction with the authority's response, accusing it of attempting to "wash away everything" related to the case.
During the hearing, the bench took affidavits from district officers concerned, primarily from Haridwar, where Patanjali is headquartered. However, the court found the affidavits lacking and allowed the Uttarakhand State Licensing Authority to file additional affidavits.
The apex court's dissatisfaction stemmed from the perception that the licensing authority only acted after the court's intervention. On April 10, the Supreme Court had criticised the authority for its apparent deliberate blindness to the matter, emphasising that it would not overlook such inaction lightly.
Subsequently, the court scheduled the next hearing for May 14, indicating its intent to closely monitor the progress of the case.
The authority informed the court that it had suspended manufacturing licenses for 14 products of Patanjali Ayurved Ltd and its sister concern, Divya Pharmacy, on April 15.
Additionally, it disclosed that a criminal complaint had been filed against Patanjali Ayurved and its founders, Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna, for violating the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act.
However, the court expressed scepticism regarding the timing of the authority's actions, noting a marked contrast between its swift response and months of apparent inaction.
Justices Kohli and Amanullah questioned why significant steps were taken only after the authority realised the extent of its power and responsibilities.
Furthermore, the court directed Patanjali Ayurved, Baba Ramdev, and Acharya Balkrishna to provide original newspaper pages featuring their public apology, as an electronic copy was deemed insufficient.
Lastly, the court waived the personal appearances of Ramdev and Balkrishna for the next hearing, indicating a desire to expedite proceedings while ensuring accountability.
The case, originally filed by the Indian Medical Association, alleges that Patanjali Ayurved and its founders undermined the Covid-19 vaccination drive and modern medicine through a smear campaign.
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