The Supreme Court issued a stern warning to Patanjali Ayurved on 21 November 2023, advising the company to refrain from disseminating misleading claims against modern medicine system. In a brief hearing, the court urged Patanjali Ayurved to avoid publishing deceptive information targeting modern medical systems. Although the court avoided delving into the Allopathy vs Ayurved debate, it indicated a potential imposition of a Rs 1 crore fine for each product that persists in featuring such misleading advertisements.
The next day, on November 22, adressing a press conference, Baba Ramdev responded to reports circulating on various media platforms regarding the Supreme Court’s alleged criticism of Patanjali. He refuted the claims, stating, “Since yesterday, a news story has gone viral on different media sites suggesting that the Supreme Court reprimanded Patanjali, saying that if false propaganda is conducted, fines will be imposed. We respect the Supreme Court, but we are not engaged in any false propaganda.”
Ramdev further went on to allege that a group of doctors is spreading misinformation against him and his company, particularly targeting yoga and Ayurveda. He asserted, “A few doctors have formed a group that continuously engages in propaganda against yoga, Ayurveda, etc. If we are found to be dishonest, fine us Rs 1000 crore, and we are also prepared for the death penalty. However, if we are not spreading falsehoods, then those responsible for the false propaganda should be punished. For the past 5 years, there has been a consistent campaign targeting Ramdev and Patanjali.”
