India's Supreme Court has summoned renowned yoga guru Ramakrishna Yadav, popularly known as Baba Ramdev, and Acharya Balakrishna, the managing director of Patanjali Ayurveda, in connection with allegations of false advertising.

A bench comprising Justice Hima Kohli and Justice Ahsanuddin Amannula directed Ramdev and Balakrishna to appear before the court following a notice issued to Patanjali Ayurveda in response to a contempt of court complaint. The court expressed displeasure over the company's failure to respond to the notice, as reported by Indian media outlets, including The Hindu and Anandbazar.

Patanjali Ayurveda, a consumer packaged goods company founded by Ramdev and Balakrishna in 2006, has faced criticism for alleged misleading advertisements promoting its products as remedies for various ailments. In November last year, the Supreme Court warned Patanjali against such deceptive advertising and indicated the possibility of imposing fines.

The apex court's scrutiny intensified in February when it criticized the central government for allegedly turning a blind eye to misleading advertisements. The court observed that the entire nation was being misled by such promotions and urged the government to take immediate action.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) filed a complaint against Patanjali, accusing the company of disparaging allopathy treatment and doctors in its advertisements, which it claimed misled the public.

One of Patanjali's controversial products, the Coronil kit, attracted scrutiny for its marketing claims despite not being proven as an anti-COVID remedy. Launched on June 23, 2020, the kit comprised tablets named 'Coronil' and 'Shwahari Boti,' along with a bottle of oil named 'Anu Oil.' Despite controversies, Patanjali reportedly sold over 23 lakh Coronil kits by October 18 of the same year, generating significant profits.

The Supreme Court's summoning of Ramdev and Balakrishna underscores the growing scrutiny over false advertising practices in India, particularly within the healthcare sector. As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome of the case could have significant implications for consumer protection and regulatory oversight in the country.