Delhi HC Criticizes Ramdev Over ‘Sharbat Jihad’ Remarks, Issues Contempt Notice

Baba Ramdev

The Delhi High Court expressed strong disapproval of yoga guru Ramdev’s continued use of the term “sharbat jihad” in reference to Hamdard’s Rooh Afza, stating that he “lives in his own world” and is “not in control of anyone.

Justice Amit Bansal found Ramdev in prima facie contempt of court for violating a previous order that prohibited him from making such statements.

Case Background

The controversy began when Ramdev, while promoting Patanjali’s ‘gulab sharbat,’ alleged that profits from Rooh Afza were being used to fund madrasas and mosques. In response, Hamdard National Foundation filed a plea against Ramdev and Patanjali Foods Ltd. The court had earlier termed Ramdev’s remarks as “indefensible” and “shocking,” leading him to assure the removal of related videos and social media posts.

Despite this assurance, Ramdev reportedly released another video containing similar comments. Justice Bansal remarked, “In view of the last order, his affidavit as well as this video are prima facie in contempt. I will issue a contempt notice now.

The court has deferred the hearing after Ramdev’s counsel requested time due to the unavailability of the arguing counsel. The matter remains under judicial consideration.