The Case Overview
In a significant legal development, the Delhi High Court has ordered two individuals to remove social media posts alleging that a centipede was found in a tub of Amul ice cream. The posts were originally shared on X (formerly Twitter), causing a stir online.
Court’s Directive
The lawsuit was filed by the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, the company behind the Amul brand. Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora, presiding over the case, issued the order on July 4. The court directed the defendants to delete the posts within three days and refrain from posting similar content on any social media platform until further notice. If the defendants fail to comply, Amul has been authorized to request X to remove the posts.
Quality Assurance Argument
Amul’s legal team argued that their stringent quality control measures make it “absolutely impossible” for any foreign substance, such as an insect, to be present in their ice cream. They highlighted the rigorous inspections conducted at every production stage, from milking the cattle to packaging the product. The company ensures that all products meet the standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
Defendants’ Non-Compliance
The defendants did not present the ice cream tub in question for inspection and failed to appear in court despite being summoned. This non-compliance led the court to believe that Amul had a valid case for interim relief. The defendants’ unwillingness to participate in a forensic examination of their claims further weakened their position.
Court’s Interim Order
The court’s interim order prevents the defendants from publishing any content related to the alleged incident on any media platform until the case is resolved. The case highlights the importance of substantiating claims made on social media, especially when they have the potential to damage a brand’s reputation.
Conclusion
This ruling underscores the legal consequences of making unverified claims on social media. Amul’s robust defense and the court’s swift action reflect the seriousness with which such allegations are treated, emphasizing the need for responsible online behavior.