From Coronil to Candlelight: Govt’s Misadventures Amid Patanjali’s Plight
As Patanjali finds itself in the hot seat over misleading medical advertisements, the Supreme Court takes center stage, refusing to accept the company’s apology. With the likes of Acharya Balkrishna and Ramdev in the courtroom, the Indian Medical Association’s petition against Patanjali’s anti-allopathy ads gains traction. But amidst the legal drama, the court throws a curveball at the Union government, questioning its inaction against Patanjali. “What were you doing during this time?” the court wonders aloud, leaving many scratching their heads. Well, it turns out the government wasn’t just twiddling its thumbs – it was busy peddling its own brand of unscientific claims, with a special nod to Patanjali’s interests.
Coronil Catastrophe: Enter Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, promoting Coronil – Patanjali’s controversial Ayurvedic pill – as a COVID-19 miracle cure. Despite the concoction’s dubious origins, efforts were made to integrate it into India’s pandemic protocol. And who could forget Ramdev’s grand claims of curing COVID-19 patients within days? But wait, there is more – government ministers join the chorus, proudly touting Coronil’s efficacy, conveniently forgetting their duty to remain neutral on such matters.
Thali Tumult: Not content with just medical mishaps, the government dives headfirst into theatrical displays of solidarity. Enter the infamous thali-banging saga, where Modi urges the nation to make a ruckus in support of frontline workers. A move billed as unity-building quickly morphs into a spectacle of questionable utility.
Candle Confusion: Not to be outdone, Modi doubles down on dramatic gestures, calling for a nationwide candle-lighting ceremony to combat COVID-19. As citizens fumble for their matches, questions arise about the efficacy of such symbolism in the face of a global pandemic.
Bhabhiji Bungle: And who could forget the Bhabhiji Papad debacle? Minister Arjun Meghwal, in a stroke of genius, hails the papad as a weapon in the fight against COVID-19, extolling its virtues on national television. Never mind the lack of scientific evidence – when there’s patriotism on the line, who needs facts? So, there you have it – a whirlwind tour of the government’s antics amidst Patanjali’s PR nightmare. As the dust settles in the courtroom, one cannot help but wonder: with friends like these, who needs enemies?
Gaurav Saharan