The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a stern warning to yoga guru Ramdev and his associate Balkrishna, cautioning them against any attempts to disparage allopathy. The court granted them the opportunity to offer a “public apology and demonstrate contrition” within a week in the contempt proceedings related to misleading advertisements by Patanjali Ayurved Ltd.
However, the court emphasised that it wasn’t absolving them of responsibility yet. The apex court is reviewing a plea filed in 2022 by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) regarding a smear campaign against the Covid vaccination drive and modern medical practices.
Ramdev and Balkrishna, present in court, tendered an unconditional apology through their counsel, expressing willingness to issue a public apology to demonstrate remorse.
“We’re not commenting on the method of apology. However, they’re not exempt from accountability at this time,” the bench informed senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing the duo.
Acknowledging Rohatgi’s submission that Ramdev and Balkrishna intend to take unilateral steps to redeem themselves, the bench granted them a week and scheduled the next hearing for April 23.
During the proceedings, the bench engaged with Ramdev and Balkrishna, questioning their breach of court orders and undertakings.
“Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna, you both hold significant stature… people admire your work. You’ve made significant contributions to Yoga,” Justice Kohli remarked to Ramdev.
Ramdev, expressing regret in Hindi, stated, “I have tendered an unconditional and unqualified apology for any mistakes I may have committed.”
Addressing Ramdev’s press conference following the court’s November 21 order, Justice Kohli inquired about the disregard for the assurances given by Patanjali’s counsel.
Ramdev clarified that there was no intention to disrespect the court and attributed the actions to enthusiasm for their work.
Balkrishna also apologised for the oversight.
The bench reiterated that disparaging allopathy was unacceptable, emphasizing the importance of respecting all medical systems.
Despite the apology, the bench expressed scepticism, particularly when Balkrishna attempted to distance Ramdev from the firm’s daily operations.
Justice Amanullah rebuked Balkrishna for his stance, questioning the sincerity of the apology.
Rohatgi reiterated their willingness to issue a public apology to demonstrate genuine remorse.
The bench urged Ramdev and Balkrishna to step forward, emphasizing the importance of their words in the matter.
Ramdev clarified that the conflict between medical systems wasn’t intended to disrespect allopathy.
Ramdev and Balkrishna had previously tendered unconditional apologies for the misleading advertisements.
However, the bench expressed dissatisfaction with their affidavits and criticized the Uttarakhand State Licensing Authority for inaction on the matter.