‘Shocks Conscience’: Delhi HC Slams Ramdev For ‘Sharbat-Jihad’ Comment Against Rooh Afza

Baba Ramdev

The Delhi High Court on Tuesday strongly criticized Baba Ramdev over his controversial remarks targeting Hamdard Laboratories and its flagship drink Rooh Afza, calling his statements “indefensible” and something that “shocks the conscience of the court.”

The comments were made during a promotional video for Patanjali’s Gulaab Sharbat on April 3, where Ramdev allegedly accused Hamdard of funding “masjids and madrasas” and referred to the phenomenon as “Sharbat Jihad.” The video has since gone viral, drawing widespread criticism.

High Court Pulls Up Ramdev, Seeks Response

The court took serious note of the remarks and instructed the counsel appearing for Ramdev to seek instructions and remain present at the next hearing.

“It shocks the conscience of the court. Indefensible,” the judge observed, indicating the gravity with which the remarks were viewed.

Hamdard Seeks Removal Of Video

Hamdard Laboratories, which manufactures Rooh Afza, has filed a civil suit against Ramdev, demanding the immediate removal of the video from all social media platforms. The company alleges that Ramdev’s comments go beyond competitive rivalry and amount to religious provocation.

Appearing for Hamdard, Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi said Ramdev’s attacks have continued unchecked and are “targeting the religion of the company’s owners.”

“A hard hand is required to nip this in the bud,” Rohatgi told the court, emphasizing the need for strong judicial intervention.

He also pointed out Ramdev’s previous run-ins with the law, including Supreme Court criticism over his attacks on allopathy. On a lighter note, he added, “There I had appeared on the wrong side.”

Ramdev Defends Himself, Faces Police Complaint

Following the controversy, Ramdev defended his comments, claiming that he had not named any specific brand in the video. However, critics argue the references were clearly directed at Hamdard and Rooh Afza.

Separately, Congress leader Digvijaya Singh lodged a police complaint in Bhopal, accusing Ramdev of promoting religious hatred with his remarks.

The High Court is expected to deliberate further on the case, including whether the content in question should be permanently taken down and whether Ramdev’s remarks amount to hate speech.

The case has reignited the debate around corporate rivalry, communal language, and the responsibility of public figures in maintaining harmony in commercial discourse.