Delhi High Court Rebukes Ramdev Over ‘Sharbat Jihad’ Remark Targeting Rooh Afza: ‘An Affront to the Court’s Conscience
Delhi High Court Rebukes Ramdev Over ‘Sharbat Jihad’ Remarks Against Rooh Afza: ‘Shocks the Conscience of the Court’
On April 22, 2025, the Delhi High Court delivered a stern rebuke to yoga guru Baba Ramdev, condemning his recent “Sharbat Jihad” comments targeting Hamdard Laboratories’ iconic drink, Rooh Afza. Justice Amit Bansal, presiding over the matter, described Ramdev’s statements as “indefensible” and noted that they “shock the conscience of the court.” The remarks were made during a video posted on Ramdev’s social media platforms, where he alleged that proceeds from Rooh Afza were being used to fund the construction of mosques and madrasas.
Hamdard Laboratories, the manufacturer of Rooh Afza, filed a defamation lawsuit against Ramdev, asserting that his comments were not only false but also aimed at creating communal discord. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Hamdard, argued that the allegations went beyond mere disparagement, likening them to hate speech intended to divide communities. He emphasized that such statements should not be permitted, highlighting the existing challenges in the country.
In response to the gravity of the situation, the Delhi High Court has directed the counsel representing Ramdev to appear before the court for further proceedings. Additionally, Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has approached the police, urging the registration of an FIR against Ramdev under the Information Technology Act, accusing him of spreading religious hatred through his statements.
This legal development underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding communal harmony and addressing statements that may incite division among communities.
