Jaipur: The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum-II in Jaipur has issued legal notices to Bollywood superstars Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn, and Tiger Shroff, along with the chairman of JB Industries, over an allegedly misleading advertisement for Vimal Pan Masala. The forum has summoned them to appear on March 19, 2025, in response to claims that the advertisement falsely promotes the presence of saffron in the product.
Consumer Complaint Over Misleading Advertisement
The action was taken based on a complaint filed by Jaipur resident Yogendra Singh Badiyal, who alleged that the Vimal Pan Masala advertisement misrepresents its contents. The tagline in the ad suggests that “every grain of the product contains the strength of saffron.” However, the complainant argued that given the high cost of saffron (₹4 lakh per kg) and the low price of the pan masala (₹5 per pouch), it is unlikely that the product actually contains real saffron.
Health Risks & Allegations Against JB Industries
The complaint further highlighted the health hazards associated with pan masala and gutkha, which often contain harmful ingredients like tobacco and carcinogenic substances. Despite the risks, JB Industries allegedly continues to promote the product using celebrity endorsements to attract consumers. The petitioner has urged authorities to ban misleading advertisements to protect public health.
Legal Summons to Bollywood Celebrities & Company Chairman
The Jaipur Consumer Forum, chaired by Gyarsilal Meena and member Hemlata Agarwal, has now sought responses from the three actors and the chairman of JB Industries. They are expected to present their stance before the forum by March 19, 2025.
This case highlights growing concerns over misleading advertisements in India, especially those promoting products with potential health risks. The outcome of this legal proceeding could set a precedent for future celebrity endorsements and consumer rights cases.
