Centre responds to court over Patanjali: Upholds individual's right to choose Ayush or Allopathy
PTC News Desk: In response to the Supreme Court's scrutiny of Patanjali's advertisements, the Centre has emphasised that individuals have the prerogative to choose between Ayush and allopathic healthcare services. The Centre's retort came after the Supreme Court criticised the Patanjali founders, asserting that the company's advertisements contravene the law.
The Supreme Court, dissatisfied with Patanjali's founders' failure to file appropriate affidavits, dismissed their apology as insincere and instructed them to submit fresh affidavits. Additionally, the Court directed pointed questions toward the central government, questioning why it had not taken action earlier.
The Centre's response clarified that while states have authority to address advertisements promoting miraculous remedies, it has promptly addressed the issue according to legal procedures. Regarding Patanjali's claim of developing Coronil as a Covid-19 cure, the Centre stated that the company was instructed not to advertise such claims until they were verified by the Ayush Ministry.
Highlighting an integrative healthcare model, the Centre stressed the importance of respecting all systems of medicine and discouraging their denigration. It emphasised that individuals have the freedom to choose between Ayush and allopathic treatments, advocating for mutual respect among practitioners of different medical systems.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) had approached the Supreme Court in 2022, citing Patanjali's advertisements as misleading and derogatory towards allopathic medicine and doctors. These advertisements allegedly undermined the effectiveness of modern medicine, a concern flagged by the IMA.
- With inputs from agencies
