The Kerala drug control department is intensifying efforts to prosecute Patanjali Ayurved products, following the Supreme Court’s admonition of Baba Ramdev’s company for disseminating advertisements containing false claims. The state drug control department plans to take legal action against Divya Pharmacy, based in Haridwar, which markets Patanjali Ayurved products. If pursued, the pharmacy may face prosecution in various courts across Kerala. The department has identified 29 misleading advertisements for Patanjali products in 14 districts of the state, focusing on claims related to heart ailments, blood pressure, and liver disease, violating the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisement) Act of 1954.
In response to an RTI filed by health activist Dr. Babu K V, the department revealed its findings, stating that the drug inspectors have been closely monitoring illegal drug promotions. The department plans to write to the State Drug Licensing Authority in Uttarakhand, seeking samples of the drug constitution. The Supreme Court’s recent verdict has provided impetus to the department’s efforts, and a department official indicated that steps for prosecution would be initiated in courts where offenses have been identified.
The violation of section 3 of the DMR Act carries penalties, including imprisonment up to one year, a fine, or both. Repeat offenses may result in imprisonment for up to five years and a fine of up to Rs 50 lakh.
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