Wed Jan 15 17:35:55 UTC 2025: **Supreme Court Threatens Contempt Action Against States for Ignoring Misleading Medical Ads**
NEW DELHI, January 16, 2025 – The Supreme Court of India issued a stern warning to several states and union territories on Wednesday, threatening contempt proceedings if they fail to take action against misleading medical advertisements. The court expressed its displeasure after reviewing compliance reports revealing inaction and difficulties in identifying offenders in various regions.
A bench headed by Justice A.S. Oka criticized states for their lack of progress in implementing existing laws such as the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, and the Consumer Protection Act. The court specifically highlighted the lack of action in Goa, Delhi’s difficulties in identifying offenders, and the varied levels of compliance across states like Uttarakhand and Puducherry.
Amicus curiae, senior advocate Shadan Farasat, presented a status report detailing the non-compliance, prompting the court’s strong reaction. Justice Oka stated that contempt action will be initiated against non-compliant states.
The court scheduled further hearings to examine compliance reports from various states in February and March. Meanwhile, contempt proceedings against Indian Medical Association (IMA) president R.V. Asokan were closed after he apologized for previous comments criticizing the court’s observations.
The case originated from petitions filed by the IMA against Baba Ramdev, Acharya Balkrishna, and Patanjali Ayurved Ltd. for publishing misleading advertisements. The court had previously closed a contempt case against the trio after they issued an unconditional apology. This latest action underscores the Supreme Court’s determination to curb misleading medical advertising and ensure compliance with existing regulations.
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