Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn, and Akshay Kumar, three of India’s biggest film stars, have been served legal notices by the Allahabad court for promoting a tobacco brand. This action follows a petition filed with the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court, raising concerns about the influence of such endorsements on public health.
According to Deputy Solicitor General SB Pandey, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) issued notices to the three actors on October 20th, 2023. This development signifies a growing movement against tobacco advertising in India, particularly its association with celebrities.
The petition argues that such endorsements, involving highly influential figures, can normalize tobacco use and encourage consumption, especially among vulnerable populations like youth. This raises concerns about the potential public health consequences of celebrities promoting harmful products.
It remains to be seen how the actors will respond to these notices and whether the CCPA will pursue further legal action. However, this development sends a strong message that celebrity endorsements of harmful products will not be tolerated without scrutiny and potential consequences.
Advocate Motilal Yadav has filed a petition against prominent Bollywood celebrities, including Padma awardees, for endorsing products that pose health risks to the public. The petition specifically raises concerns about their involvement in tobacco advertisements.
Timeline of Events:
- August 2023: The court issued notices to the Cabinet Secretary, Chief Commissioner, and Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) regarding celebrity endorsements of harmful products.
- September 2022: The court directed the petitioner to approach the Government of India concerning the issue.
- October 2023: The petitioner filed a contempt plea alleging non-compliance with the September 2022 order.
- October 2023: The CCPA issued show-cause notices to Akshay Kumar, Shah Rukh Khan, and Ajay Devgn.
- October 22, 2023: The petitioner submitted a representation to the government regarding the matter.
- October 27, 2023: The High Court served a notice to the Cabinet Secretary of the Central Government.
- November 2023: Deputy Solicitor General SB Pandey informed the court that the Centre had issued show-cause notices to the three actors.
