Bollywood actor Salman Khan has submitted a detailed response to the Kota Consumer Court regarding allegations of misleading pan masala advertisements, asserting he endorsed silver-coated cardamom rather than gutkha or pan masala products.
The case originated from a complaint filed by Kota BJP leader and advocate Inder Mohan Singh Honey, who alleged Khan and Rajshree Pan Masala misled consumers through advertisements promoting “saffron-coated cardamom” and “saffron-coated pan masala.” The complainant questioned the authenticity of using genuine saffron in products priced at Rs 5 per pouch.
Legal Arguments Challenge Court Authority
Salman Khan’s representative, advocate Ashish Dubey, argued the Consumer Commission lacks jurisdiction over the matter, stating the actor is neither a manufacturer nor service provider for pan masala products. Dubey characterized Khan’s involvement as legally unjustified and accused the complainant of causing “unnecessary harassment” through false allegations.
The defense maintained that silver-coated cardamom does not classify as pan masala, fundamentally undermining the complaint’s basis.
Signature Authenticity Questioned
Complainant Pradeep Instructor Singh Hani has challenged the submitted response, claiming the signatures do not appear genuine. Hani requested the court order Khan’s personal appearance and verify the document’s authenticity.
Public Health Concerns Raised
Honey emphasized the broader implications of celebrity endorsements for tobacco-related products. “The company, Rajshree Pan Masala, and its brand ambassador, actor Salman Khan, claim that the product contains saffron and encourages young people to consume it. Salman Khan is a role model for many people,” Honey told ANI.
He contrasted Indian celebrity practices with international standards, stating, “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 as pan masala is one of the leading causes of mouth cancer.”
The advocate warned such advertisements encourage youth consumption of harmful products linked to severe health consequences, particularly mouth cancer.
Case Proceedings Continue
The Kota Consumer Court has issued notices to both Salman Khan and Rajshree Pan Masala. The next hearing is scheduled for December 9, when the court will consider jurisdictional arguments, signature verification requests, and the substantive allegations regarding product classification and advertising standards.
