Swami Ramdev has received relief from the Delhi High Court in the defamation case filed by Hamdard Laboratories over remarks made about its popular drink Rooh Afza. The court has closed the case after Ramdev assured the court that all objectionable videos have been removed and that no such statements will be made again.
What Did the Court Say?
Justice Amit Bansal noted that:
- Ramdev and Patanjali submitted affidavits accepting the court’s direction.
- The plaintiff (Hamdard) did not seek further relief.
- Based on these developments, the court has disposed of the case.
Background: What Was the Controversy?
Hamdard had approached the court after Ramdev’s videos allegedly defamed Rooh Afza, a decades-old popular syrup brand in India. The Delhi High Court had earlier expressed shock over the tone and content of the videos. In one hearing, the judge remarked, "I could not believe my ears and eyes after watching it."
Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Hamdard, argued that the video was not just defamatory but amounted to hate speech that could fuel communal tension.
What Ramdev Did to Resolve the Matter
- Ramdev's legal team, led by Senior Advocate Rajiv Nair, assured the court that the videos were being removed.
- He submitted an affidavit confirming compliance with the court’s order.
- Ramdev also promised not to issue similar comments in the future.
The court accepted these assurances and said that since the advertisements were withdrawn and no further relief was sought, the matter could be closed.
