A consumer court in Mumbai has mandated a forensic examination of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan's signature, escalating a high-profile lawsuit concerning alleged misleading advertisements for a pan masala brand. The case, which has been ongoing, involves a significant claim for damages and raises serious questions about celebrity endorsements.
The Core of the Legal Dispute
The Mumbai District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission issued this crucial order on a recent Tuesday. The legal action was initiated by a consumer, Prakash Devasia, who filed a complaint against Salman Khan, the manufacturing company, and its directors. The central allegation is that the actor promoted a pan masala product through television and social media advertisements, creating a false impression that it was a safe and harmless mouth freshener, while allegedly downplaying its health risks.
In his defense, Salman Khan's legal team submitted a copy of a power of attorney document. This document was presented to argue that the actor was not directly involved in the contractual agreements related to the advertisement. However, the complainant challenged the authenticity of the superstar's signature on this very document, prompting the court to seek a definitive answer through scientific analysis.
Court's Directive and Financial Stakes
The judicial body, presided over by President S. S. Kulkarni and member Jyoti K. Kulkarni, has directed the complainant to deposit a sum of Rs 25,000 with the court's registry. This amount will cover the expenses for the forensic analysis. The court has explicitly instructed that the signature on the contested power of attorney must be compared with Salman Khan's undisputed signatures from official records held by the Income Tax Department and his bank.
The stakes in this case are substantial. The complainant is seeking compensation totaling Rs 2 crore from the respondents. This sum is broken down into two parts: Rs 1 crore for the alleged mental agony and harassment suffered, and another Rs 1 crore to be deposited with the Consumer Legal Aid Account for public welfare. The next hearing in this matter is scheduled for September 5, 2024.
Broader Implications for Endorsements
This legal development places a renewed spotlight on the accountability of celebrities in product endorsements, particularly for products with potential health implications. The forensic test order signifies the court's commitment to verifying factual claims before proceeding with the substantive merits of the misleading advertisement allegation. The outcome could set a significant precedent for how consumer courts handle disputes involving high-profile endorsers and the evidence they submit.
The case continues to underscore the responsibilities of public figures under India's consumer protection laws. All parties involved are now awaiting the results of the handwriting analysis, which will likely play a pivotal role in determining the future trajectory of this closely watched lawsuit.
