Delhi High Court Slams Ramdev Over ‘Sherbet Jihad’ Remark: “Shocks the Conscience of the Court”

Key Highlights:

Delhi High Court came down heavily on yoga guru Baba Ramdev on April 20, 2025, over his controversial “sherbet jihad” remark targeting Rooh Afza, the popular drink manufactured by Hamdard Laboratories. During the hearing of a defamation suit filed by Hamdard, Justice Amit Bansal described the remarks as “indefensible” and said they “shock the conscience of the court.”

The court’s remarks indicate serious judicial concern over the communal tone of the comments and the potential for public misinformation and hate speech.

Background: What Ramdev Allegedly Said

During a public promotional event, Ramdev reportedly said that Rooh Afza, a widely consumed sherbet especially during summer and Ramadan, was part of a “sherbet jihad.” He implied that its consumption contributed to funding religious institutions, a claim widely criticized as inflammatory.

The statement soon went viral on social media and sparked widespread backlash, with many users condemning the communal undertone.

Hamdard’s Legal Stand Against Ramdev

In response, Hamdard Laboratories filed a defamation case in the Delhi High Court, stating:

• Rooh Afza has been a secular, household brand for over 100 years, enjoyed by consumers of all faiths.
• Ramdev’s remarks were baseless, misleading, and communally charged.
• The statements were made with malicious intent to promote Patanjali’s own competing products by discrediting rivals.

The brand argued that such statements damaged its reputation and could affect sales by alienating a significant consumer base.

Delhi High Court’s Observations

Justice Amit Bansal did not mince words:

“This kind of comment shocks the conscience of the court. It goes beyond mere advertisement. It is a communal provocation masked as business competition.”

The court also questioned whether such divisive marketing tactics should be protected under freedom of expression when they risk inciting social discord.

Ramdev’s Counsel Responds

Ramdev’s legal team attempted to downplay the remarks, suggesting they were made in jest and had been taken out of context. However, the bench observed that influential public figures have a higher responsibility and should not make communalized statements for commercial gain.

The court did not issue an immediate injunction but is expected to take up the case for detailed hearing next week.

Communalizing Commerce: A Dangerous Trend?

Legal and marketing experts have noted with concern the increasing communal rhetoric in advertising and business rivalry. This case may set a precedent in defining limits of promotional speech, especially when national brands use religion to influence markets.

What This Means for Ramdev and Patanjali

• The Delhi High Court’s words may invite further scrutiny into Patanjali’s promotional practices.
• Ramdev could be directed to issue a public apology or face court-mandated penalties.
• The matter also affects the brand image of Patanjali, already under fire for prior misleading ads and banned medicinal claims.

How to Take Action

• 🧾 Consumers: Verify claims before boycotting or endorsing any product
• 📣 Brands: Avoid religious or communal language in advertising
• ⚖️ Regulators: Consider stricter ASCI and legal frameworks to deter hate speech in marketing

Who Will Be Affected

• 🛒 Rooh Afza consumers from all backgrounds, especially during the summer and Ramadan
• 💼 Brand marketers and influencers, now under stricter ethical spotlight
• ⚖️ FMCG sector players, who may rethink advertising strategies in the wake of judicial censure

Delhi High Court Sends Strong Message: Hate Has No Place in Marketing

With this strongly-worded rebuke, the Delhi High Court has once again positioned itself as a guardian against the communalization of everyday life and commerce. As the case proceeds, all eyes remain on whether the court will call for corrective action or a public apology from Ramdev.

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