Consumer Court Orders Salman Khan To Appear In Person Over Misleading Pan Masala Ad

A consumer court in Kota, Rajasthan, has summoned Salman Khan to appear in person in connection with a complaint over a “misleading” pan masala advertisement. The court has also ordered a forensic examination

of the signature on the power of attorney submitted on the actor’s behalf. The next hearing in the matter is scheduled for January 20.

The case was filed on October 15 by advocate and BJP leader Indra Mohan Singh Honey. Singh has alleged that Rajshree Pan Masala and Salman Khan misled consumers by promoting their product as “saffron-infused cardamom” and saffron-flavoured pan masala. He argued that saffron, which costs around Rs 4 lakh per kilogram, could not realistically be present in a pan masala pouch sold for just Rs 5. Singh also claimed that such advertisements mislead the public, particularly young people, and encourage pan masala consumption, which can pose serious health risks, including cancer.

During the hearing on December 9, the petitioner raised objections over Salman Khan’s signature on the power of attorney and the reply filed on his behalf. Singh claimed there were discrepancies in the signatures and demanded an investigation. Acting on the objection, the court directed a forensic science laboratory (FSL) to examine the signature and ordered Salman Khan to appear in person at the next hearing. The court also summoned advocate R.C. Choubey, who notarised the documents, to be present.

The petitioner alleged, “The power of attorney and reply submitted on behalf of the actor did not bear his signature. Khan’s signature differed from those he had signed in Jodhpur jail and in the court there.” Speaking to PTI, Singh said, “We objected to Khan’s signature and demanded an FSL examination of the signature and his personal appearance. The court accepted our objection.” He further added that he plans to file a separate case alleging forgery of documents against Salman Khan and others, claiming that forged papers were presented before the court.