Baba Ramdev’s Supreme Court apology creates meme frenzy, internet claims it as “Sorryasana”

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court expressed its disapproval towards Patanjali Ayurved and Yoga guru Baba Ramdev for their nonchalant apology affidavit and their failure to abide by its directive in the case of deceptive advertisements.

Labeling it as a “severe breach of commitment” to the court, a panel of Justices Hima Kohli and Ahsanuddin Amanullah requested Baba Ramdev and Patanjali Ayurved’s managing director Acharya Balkrishna to present a more satisfactory apology affidavit.

Both Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna were present in person at the Supreme Court on Tuesday.

Justice Kohli, as quoted by Bar and Bench, stated that if the violation is indefensible, then their apology would not suffice. She emphasized that they should have adhered to their solemn undertaking and criticized their media department for being unaware of the court proceedings, calling it more of a lip service.

The court ordered that a better affidavit should be filed within a week, stating that this was their last chance to do so.

On March 21, Patanjali MD Acharya Balkrishna issued an “unconditional apology” to the Supreme Court for advertising several herbal products of the company claiming their medicinal efficacy in treating several serious diseases.

In an affidavit submitted by Patanjali last month, it was stated that “The Deponent (Balkrishna) on behalf of Respondent No. 5 (Patanjali) submits an unqualified apology before this Hon’ble Court for the breach of the statement recorded in Para 3 of the order dated November 21, 2023.”

The affidavit further stated that “Respondent No. 5 Company (Patanjali) now possesses evidence-based scientific data with clinical research conducted in Ayurveda, which would demonstrate the advances made through scientific research in the context of diseases… In light of the same it is humbly submitted that the Deponent’s only quest is for a better and healthier life for each and every citizen…,”

Memes flood on social media after SC criticized Patanjali

The Supreme Court’s admonishment of Patanjali led to a surge of memes on social media, with users criticizing Baba Ramdev for his irresponsible comments. Social media users responded to the Supreme Court’s ruling with a plethora of memes criticizing Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna for their unscientific assertions and for disseminating misinformation, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic.

During the hearing, the bench noted that Patanjali seems to be guilty of perjury, which is lying to the court and is a punishable offense under the Constitution. Justice Kohli pointed, “You said documents have been attached, but the documents were created later on. This is a clear case of perjury! We are not closing the doors on you but we are telling all that we have noted.”

You might also be interested in – IUML moves Supreme Court seeking stay as centre implements CAA