In Re: Indian Medical Association and Anr. Vs. Union of India and Ors.

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CASE ANALYSIS

[Suo Moto Contempt Petition (civil) no. 4 of 2024]

[Writ Petition (civil) No. 645 of 2022]

HIMA KOHLI AND AHSANUDDIN AMANULLAH, JJ.

INTRODUCTION

The Supreme Court sent a warning to Patanjali Ayurved and its MD, Acharya Balakrishna, for allegedly not stopping the publication of false ads on medicinal cures, despite promising not to do so in November last year.

FACTUAL BACKGROUND

Patanjali Ayurved was previously warned by the Court for deceptive ads and told they would be fined Rs 1 Crore per product for further violations. Patanjali Ayurved promised the Court that they will not release similar ads again and will make sure that no informal comments are given to the press.

C. LEGAL ISSUES

The primary legal concern is whether Patanjali Ayurved breached the commitment made to the Court regarding false advertising and if they should face contempt of court charges. Furthermore, the Court inquired the Union Government about the measures taken under the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954, regarding Patanjali’s advertisements.

D. APPLICABLE LAW

Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954
Principles of Contempt of Court

E. ANALYSIS

The Court found evidence of Patanjali Ayurved violating the undertaking and issued a notice for contempt. Patanjali Ayurved was also prohibited from promoting products for illnesses listed in the Act and warned against making negative comments about any medical practices. The Union Government was requested to submit a written statement detailing the actions taken in accordance with the Act.

F. CONCLUSIONS

Further processes will be conducted after a two-week period. The Court suggested a total prohibition on ads, but clarified that it would only pertain to items linked to illnesses listed in the legislation. The Court also cautioned that severe consequences would be taken if the violations persist.

G. CURRENT SCENARIO

H. CASE SUMMARY

The landmark case of Indian Medical Association & Anr. v. Union of India & Ors. (2022), brought to the forefront a crucial issue at the intersection of public health, scientific integrity, and regulatory oversight. This case, targeting Patanjali Ayurved Limited, highlighted the need for stringent control over the marketing and promotion of Ayurvedic products, especially when claims of therapeutic efficacy are made for serious ailments.

The IMA argued that Patanjali’s advertising for its “Coronil” product, claiming efficacy against COVID-19, lacked scientific validation and was misleading. This potentially compromised public health by fostering false hope and deterring people from seeking evidence-based medical treatment. The Court, acknowledging the potential harm, directed the Ministry of AYUSH to investigate and establish the scientific validity of Coronil’s claims.

This case serves as a vital reminder of the importance of robust regulatory frameworks in the realm of public health. It underscores the need for:

Scientific Scrutiny: Claims regarding the efficacy of any product, especially in the context of serious illnesses, must be subject to rigorous scientific testing and peer review before being advertised.

Clear Regulations: The advertising of Ayurvedic products, particularly those claiming curative properties, needs clear guidelines and strict enforcement to prevent misleading claims and ensure public safety.

Consumer Empowerment: Informed consumers are crucial for ensuring the effectiveness of public health measures. Education regarding the scientific basis of medicine and the distinction between evidence-based and unsubstantiated claims is essential.

The IMA v. Union of India case is not merely a dispute between a professional association and a corporation. It is a landmark case that sets a precedent for the responsible marketing and promotion of alternative medicine products. This case underscores the need for a balanced approach that promotes traditional knowledge while safeguarding public health through rigorous scientific standards and effective regulatory oversight.

~ Leevanshiqa

[A student at] Kalinga University, Raipur

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONs

Q1. What is a Contempt Notice?

Ans. A contempt notice is a formal statement issued by a court to an individual or entity, informing them that their actions or statements are considered disrespectful or disobedient to the court’s authority. The notice usually outlines the specific behavior deemed contemptuous and requires the individual to respond or appear before the court. In some cases, personal service of the notice is required.

Q2. What is the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act?

Ans. The Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954 is a legislation aimed at regulating the advertisement of drugs. It specifically controls the advertisement of certain drugs to prevent misleading or false claims, particularly those related to remedies that are alleged to possess magical qualities. The Act prohibits advertisements that make wrongful claims regarding the treatment of diseases and aims to protect consumers from deceptive practices in drug marketing.

Q3. What are the Principles of Contempt of Court?

Ans. The principles of Contempt of Court revolve around maintaining the dignity and authority of the judicial system. Key principles include the following:

Protection of the Judiciary: Contempt laws are designed to protect the integrity, dignity, and authority of the court and its proceedings.
Types of Contempt: There are generally two types: civil contempt (non-compliance with court orders) and criminal contempt (actions that disrespect the court’s authority or obstruct the administration of justice).
Due Process: The accused in a contempt proceeding is entitled to fair treatment and a chance to defend themselves, ensuring that the principles of natural justice are upheld.

It’s crucial to recognize that contempt laws can vary by jurisdiction. Therefore, you should double-check the specifics in the relevant legal context.