New Delhi: Patanjali Ayurved, in a statement, expressed deep regret for its recent actions and assured the Supreme Court of its commitment to upholding the court’s dignity and the constitution. This comes after the Supreme Court’s firm stance against Acharya Balkrishna and Baba Ramdev for promoting misleading advertisements of their ayurvedic products.
In its public apology as carried by the Indian Express, Ramdev stated, ‘Patanjali Ayurved fully respects the dignity of the Hon’ble Supreme Court. We sincerely apologize for the mistake of publishing advertisements and holding a press conference even after our advocates made a statement in the apex court. We are committed to not let such a mistake be repeated ever in the future. We reassure you that we shall remain committed to uphold the constitution and the dignity of the Hon’ble Supreme Court.’
The Supreme Court, while acknowledging Ramdev’s contributions to yoga, emphasized that the duo remains under scrutiny and has yet to receive absolution. They extended a week’s time for them to rectify their actions and demonstrate sincerity, with the next hearing scheduled for April 23. Patanjali was given a week to issue a public statement in the fake advertisement case.
Justice Hima Kohli highlighted the importance of responsible conduct, cautioning against disparaging other medical systems. The court’s decision followed Patanjali’s repeated violations of court directives, with the bench reminding them of the principle of equality before the law.
The matter pertains to a petition filed by the Indian Medical Association which has alleged that the company engaged in a smear campaign against modern medicine and at the time, Covid-19 vaccines.
In the previous hearing, the SC slammed the duo as the bench refused to accept the affidavits containing ‘unconditional apology’ filed by Ramdev and Balkrishna in the matter. Court said these apologies were ‘only on paper’.
Ramdev, offering an “unconditional and unqualified” apology, affirmed that there was no intention to undermine the Supreme Court’s prestige. He assured the court of exercising caution in the future.
Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi informed the court that the duo was prepared to issue a public apology, expressing contrition regarding the advertisements. Previously, the Supreme Court had rebuffed their apologies twice, while also criticizing the Union government for its silence regarding Patanjali Ayurved’s misleading advertisements.
Patanjali Ayurved, based in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, reiterated its commitment to rectifying the mistake and ensuring that such incidents are not repeated in the future. The company fully respects the dignity of the Hon’ble Supreme Court and remains dedicated to upholding the constitution.
