Supreme Court Cracks Down on Misleading Advertisements, Puts Celebrities on Notice
Taking a decisive stance against misleading advertisements, the Supreme Court issued stringent directives on May 7, placing celebrities and public figures under scrutiny for endorsing products irresponsibly. The bench, comprising Justices Hima Kohli and Ahsanuddin Amanullah, mandated advertisers to self-certify compliance with Indian laws before airing ads, echoing Cable TV Network Rules of 1994.
Emphasizing the significant influence of famous personalities on consumer choices, the court underscored the need for accountability in product endorsements. The ruling highlighted the responsibility of celebrities, influencers, and public figures in promoting products responsibly.
In response to a case filed by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) in 2022 against Patanjali Ayurved Ltd and its founder, yoga guru Ramdev, the court expressed dismay over the persistence of prohibited and misleading Patanjali advertisements on various online platforms despite previous court orders. The case accused the firm of running a smear campaign against modern medicine and the Covid vaccination drive.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court directed relevant ministries to provide updates on actions taken by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) against misleading advertisements, signaling a comprehensive approach to curb deceptive marketing practices.
The court’s decisive actions underscore its commitment to safeguarding consumer interests and upholding the integrity of advertising standards in India.
