New Delhi | April 22, 2025: The Delhi High Court has expressed strong disapproval of yoga guru Ramdev’s recent “sharbat jihad” comment, describing it as “indefensible” and stating that it “shocks the conscience of the court.” The remark was made while promoting Patanjali’s rose-flavored drink, wherein Ramdev suggested that proceeds from Hamdard’s Rooh Afza were being used to fund madrasas and mosques.
Justice Amit Bansal, presiding over the case, warned that unless Ramdev’s counsel provided satisfactory explanations, the court would issue a stringent order. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Hamdard National Foundation India, argued that the issue transcends mere commercial disparagement, asserting that it constitutes hate speech aimed at creating communal divisions.
In response to the backlash, Ramdev defended his statement, claiming he did not explicitly name any brand or community. However, the court remains unconvinced, emphasizing the potential for such remarks to incite communal discord.
The case has been adjourned temporarily due to the unavailability of Ramdev’s counsel, with further hearings anticipated in the coming days.
Source: Siasat.com
