Bollywood Stars Akshay Kumar, Shahrukh Khan, Ajay Devgn Face Contempt Over Gutka Ads

The central government has issued notices to Bollywood actors Akshay Kumar, Shahrukh Khan, and Ajay Devgn for their involvement in gutka advertisements, in response to a contempt petition filed in the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court. The court has fixed the next hearing for May 9, 2024.

html

In response to a contempt petition, the central government has informed the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court that it has issued notices to actors Akshay Kumar, Shah Rukh Khan, and Ajay Devgn for their involvement in gutka advertisements.

High Court Hearing

The Centre's counsel informed the High Court on Friday that the Supreme Court is also hearing a similar case and, therefore, the instant petition should be dismissed. After considering the submission, the bench fixed the next hearing for May 9, 2024.

Petitioner's Contention

Earlier, a bench headed by Justice Rajesh Singh Chauhan had directed the central government to take action on a representation filed by a petitioner. The petitioner had argued that action should be taken against actors and dignitaries who have received high-profile awards but are promoting gutka products through advertisements.

Government's Response

The petitioner pointed out that a representation was made to the government on October 22, but no action was taken in the matter. Subsequently, the High Court issued a notice to the Cabinet Secretary of the central government after hearing the contempt petition.

Notices Issued to Actors

During the recent hearing, Deputy Solicitor General SB Pandey informed the High Court that the Centre had issued show-cause notices to Akshay Kumar, Shah Rukh Khan, and Ajay Devgn. The court was also informed that Amitabh Bachchan had sent a legal notice to a gutka company for using his advertisement despite the termination of their contract.

The High Court's decision to issue notices to prominent actors for their involvement in gutka advertisements highlights the growing concern over the harmful effects of these products and the need for responsible advertising practices.