Why did the Supreme Court ban Baba Ramdev’s Patanjali from advertising its products?

Syllabus: GS-II, Subject: Polity, Topic: Legal issues, Issue: Misleading Advertisements

Context: The Supreme Court banned Patanjali Ayurved from marketing its products until further orders are passed.

Drugs & Other Magical Remedies Act, 1954 (DOMA):

• There is a prohibition against publishing misleading advertisements relating to a drug.
• Punishment: Up to six months imprisonment and/or fine.

Consumer Protection Act, 2019 (CPA):

• Aim: Protecting the rights and interests of consumers.
• Prohibition of unfair trade practices: Outlaws misleading advertisements.
• Product liability: Holds manufacturers and sellers liable for harm caused by defective products.
• Consumer Dispute Redressal Commissions (CDRCs): a mechanism for consumers to file complaints against businesses and seek redressal

Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA): a central body to regulate matters related to consumer protection, investigate violations, and issue consumer safety notices.

Source: Indian Express