Delhi High Court Rebukes Ramdev Over ‘Sharbat Jihad’ Remarks: Says ‘He Lives in His Own World’

New Delhi, 1st May 2025 — The Delhi High Court came down heavily on yoga guru Ramdev on Thursday. The court criticized his continued defiance of court orders related to his controversial “sharbat jihad” comments. These remarks have sparked widespread outrage and legal challenges.

Court Finds Ramdev in Prima Facie Contempt

Justice Amit Bansal of the Delhi High Court observed that Ramdev had breached the court’s previous directive, dated April 22. This directive barred him from making statements or releasing videos targeting Hamdard Laboratories’ products, specifically Rooh Afza. Despite this, the court noted that Ramdev had published a fresh video containing allegedly defamatory and communal content.

“In view of the last order, his affidavit is prima facie in contempt. This video is also in contempt,” Justice Bansal stated, adding critically, “He is not in control of anyone. He lives in his own world.”

Also Read: Baba Ramdev’s ‘Sharbat Jihad’ Remark Sparks Controversy Over Rooh Afza

Origins of the Controversy: ‘Sharbat Jihad’ Allegation

The case originated from a legal complaint filed by the Hamdard National Foundation India against Ramdev and Patanjali Foods Ltd. The dispute centers on allegations. While promoting Patanjali’s rose-flavored sharbat, Ramdev made inflammatory claims. He suggested that revenue from Rooh Afza was being funneled to build madrasas and mosques. These remarks are interpreted as communal and damaging.

Court Previously Condemned Remarks as ‘Indefensible’

In an earlier hearing, the court harshly criticized Ramdev’s “sharbat jihad” rhetoric. The court described the remarks as deeply disturbing and without justification. The bench had said such comments “shook the conscience” of the court. Following that, Ramdev had given a verbal assurance that all related videos and online posts would be deleted.

Ramdev’s Defense: ‘I Didn’t Name Anyone’

Attempting to justify his comments, Ramdev claimed he never explicitly named Hamdard or any particular community. “The Rooh Afza people took ‘sharbat jihad’ on themselves… this means they are doing this ‘jihad’,” he told the court, shifting the onus of interpretation to the complainants.

Political and Legal Fallout

The controversy has not remained confined to the courtroom. Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh filed a formal complaint at the TT Nagar police station in Bhopal. He demanded a criminal case against Ramdev for inciting communal hatred. The matter has since gained national attention, reigniting debates around religious sensitivity, corporate rivalry, and freedom of expression.

Next Steps in Court

The court is now considering Ramdev in prima facie contempt. Legal experts suggest that further proceedings could result in penalties. There could also be stricter restrictions. This will happen unless the court is satisfied with compliance and a formal apology.