Salman Khan gets legal notice over ‘misleading’ pan masala ads

Salman Khan has found himself at the center of another legal storm after a formal complaint was filed in the Kota Consumer Court, accusing him of endorsing a “misleading” pan masala advertisement. The complaint, registered by senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Rajasthan High Court advocate Inder Mohan Singh Honey, alleges that the actor and the brand he represents, Rajshree Pan Masala, are promoting false claims to consumers, especially young people.

The Kota Consumer Court, taking cognisance of the issue, has issued a legal notice to the actor and sought an official reply. Advocate Honey has demanded a complete ban on the advertisement, calling it deceptive and harmful.

According to the lawsuit, the pan masala in question is advertised as containing “saffron-infused cardamom” and “saffron-infused pan masala.” The complaint challenges these claims, particularly pointing out the economic implausibility of using saffron, that costs nearly Rs 4 lakh per kilogram, in a product sold for just Rs 5.

“The company, Rajshree Pan Masala and its brand ambassador, actor Salman Khan, claim that the product contains saffron and encourages the youth to consume it. Salman Khan is a role model for many people. We have filed a complaint against it in the Kota Consumer Court and notices have been issued for a hearing,” Advocate Inder Mohan Singh Honey told ANI.