Rajasthan Consumer Commission Dismisses Salman Khan's Petition on Misleading Ads
The Rajasthan State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has firmly dismissed revision petitions filed by Bollywood superstar Salman Khan and Rajshree Pan Masala, a company he endorses, concerning allegations of misleading advertisements. This significant ruling was delivered on Monday by a bench led by Justice Devendra Kachhawaha, alongside judicial member Arun Kumar Agrawal and member Liyaqat Ali.
Legal Challenge and Commission's Stance
Khan and the company had challenged prior orders from a district consumer commission, arguing that actions against misleading advertisements should exclusively be initiated by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) in New Delhi or authorized officers. They contended that the complainant, Yogendra Singh, does not qualify as a "consumer" under the law.
However, the state commission robustly countered this argument, emphasizing that centralizing such powers solely in New Delhi could severely hinder effective consumer relief across India. The commission highlighted the importance of accessible local mechanisms to protect consumers from deceptive marketing practices.
Background of the Case
The complaint was originally filed by Yogendra Singh, who seeks to halt the sale of Rajshree Pan Masala and prohibit Salman Khan's endorsement due to alleged misleading practices. Prior rulings from the district commission on January 6 and January 15 had already imposed restrictions on Rajshree Pan Masala's promotional activities and mandated court supervision for obtaining Khan's signature in related matters.
This case underscores ongoing legal scrutiny over celebrity endorsements and their accountability in advertising. The dismissal reinforces the authority of state-level consumer bodies in addressing grievances, ensuring that consumer protection remains decentralized and responsive to local needs.
Implications for Consumer Rights
The decision sets a precedent for how misleading advertisement cases are handled, affirming that state commissions have jurisdiction to act independently without relying solely on central authorities. It strengthens the framework for holding both companies and endorsers accountable, promoting transparency and trust in commercial promotions.
As consumer awareness grows, such rulings are crucial in safeguarding public interest against potentially harmful or deceptive marketing strategies. The commission's stance prioritizes swift and accessible redressal, aligning with broader efforts to enhance consumer protection laws in India.
