Indian Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev Appeals for Mercy from Judges

By Asif Ali Awan

| Published Apr 17, 2024 | 11:40 a.m.

In a recent turn of events, the esteemed yoga instructor Baba Ramdev acknowledged his error and offered an apology to the judiciary for not adhering to its directive to cease deceptive advertising. These ads claimed that his ayurvedic remedies could effectively treat chronic conditions such as diabetes.

Clad in his iconic saffron robe, Ramdev humbly addressed the Supreme Court, admitting that his response was a reaction to the criticism of Patanjali Ayurved's products as "p

seudo-science." However, he clarified that this did not excuse his actions.

The Supreme Court had earlier rejected apologies submitted by Ramdev and Patanjali's co-founder, Acharya Balkrishna, and had reprimanded the chief of a state pharmaceutical regulator for failing to take legal measures against the company.

In a courtroom filled to capacity, Ramdev expressed his regret, stating, "We erred in what we proclaimed." He acknowledged his vast following and committed to being more considerate in the future.

The lawsuit stems from the Indian Medical Association's claim that Patanjali denigrated mainstream medicine and persisted in circulating the disputed advertisements.

A well-known figure in India, Ramdev regularly demonstrates yoga on television. He reiterated his claims about his herbal products at a media event last year, despite the court's prohibition against such advertisements the day before.

Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah advised Ramdev during the proceedings, appreciating his contributions to his field but cautioning him against discrediting allopathic medicine.

At the hearing's commencement, Ramdev's attorney, Mukul Rohatgi, informed the court of their readiness to issue a public apology. The next session is scheduled for April 23.

Ramdev has historically defended ayurvedic treatments and criticized some medical professionals for allegedly propagating misinformation about them. He has also appeared alongside members of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet and leaders from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.