Bollywood actor Salman Khan is facing legal scrutiny after the Kota Consumer Court in Rajasthan issued a notice to him and the company he endorses, Rajshree. The complaint alleges that advertisements for the pan masala brand are misleading consumers and promoting a product linked to health risks.
The Complaint: Questioning ‘Saffron-Infused’ Claims
The complaint was filed by Inder Mohan Singh Honey, a senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Rajasthan High Court advocate. He is seeking a complete ban on the advertisements.
The core of the complaint revolves around the product’s claims of containing “saffron-infused cardamom” and “saffron-infused pan masala.”
- The Price Discrepancy: The petitioner argues that these claims are impossible to uphold, stating that saffron is priced at approximately ₹4 lakh per kilogram, making its inclusion in a product priced at only ₹5 per pouch illogical and deceitful.
- Encouraging Youth Consumption: The complaint highlights that such misleading claims encourage young people to consume pan masala, which is a leading cause of mouth cancer.
- Role Model Responsibility: Advocate Honey emphasized the actor’s influence, stating, “Salman Khan is a role model for many people… Celebrities or film stars in other countries don’t even promote cold drinks, but they are promoting tobacco and pan masala. I urge them not to spread the wrong message to the youth.”
It is noted that while Salman Khan is the brand ambassador for Rajshree’s elaichi (cardamom) product, the company also manufactures pan masala.
Court Action and Next Steps
The Kota Consumer Court has taken cognizance of the complaint and has issued formal notices to both the manufacturer and actor Salman Khan, demanding a response.
The next hearing for the case is scheduled for November 27. Responses from both the company and the actor are currently awaited.