Mumbai, August 18: BJP legislator Vikram Baburao Pachpute has raised concerns over the celebrity endorsements in advertisements for pan masala, flavored supari, and tobacco products. He pointed out that despite the ban on flavored tobacco and gutkha in Maharashtra, advertisements for various brands continue to surface. Pachpute has written to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, urging them to take action.
In an interview, Pachpute stated that he first brought this issue to the Maharashtra Assembly. He questioned how advertisements for brands operating under different names can be aired when these products are banned in the state. He noted that he received a response in the Assembly indicating that such advertisements are viewed as ‘surrogate advertisements,’ making direct action difficult under current provisions.
Regarding the notices issued to some actors by Tukaram Mundhe, Pachpute emphasized that merely issuing notices will not provide a permanent solution. If these ads are considered surrogate advertisements under existing laws, the involved celebrities could seek legal relief. This is why he has requested FSSAI to reassess the situation. Letters have also been sent to the CCPA and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
The BJP legislator argues that these advertisements should not only be classified as ‘surrogate ads’ but also as ‘misleading ads.’ Effective regulation is essential. Actors, athletes, and major influencers serve as role models for the youth. Promoting controversial or harmful products through these faces could lead young people astray. Celebrities and influencers have a social responsibility and should avoid participating in such advertisements.
Pachpute stated that this issue is in the public interest and should not be politicized. He urged the opposition to also address this matter. He believes that if the opposition steps forward and collaborates with the government to strengthen the laws, it could yield positive outcomes. He has not limited his efforts to the state-level FDA or relevant departments but has also reached out to FSSAI and central government institutions.
He noted that India’s priorities have evolved over time. Previously, food availability was a significant challenge, but the country has moved beyond that. Currently, food safety is a more pressing issue, and regulations related to food security should be strengthened accordingly. Addressing a question about compensation for a sweet shop in Pune, Pachpute emphasized the need for balance between the judiciary and administration.
He remarked that any individual or organization that operates carries the risk of making mistakes. If 100 tasks are performed and one fails, the judiciary should also consider the 99 successful efforts. If legal and government officials are constantly under pressure from criticism for every decision, how can the government and administration function effectively? The government and administration must collaborate, and the judiciary’s role is to ensure that the system operates correctly under the law.
On the controversy surrounding ‘Vande Mataram,’ Vikram Pachpute responded that it is not a new issue and has long been part of the country’s public life. He questioned why objections were not raised earlier if someone or a group had issues with ‘Vande Mataram.’ He emphasized that if anyone has concerns about a subject, legal and legislative processes are available to address them.
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P.S.K./A.B.M.
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