Should Mumbai Police Take Action Against Ranbir Kapoor for E-Cigarette Promotion?
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Synopsis
The NHRC has directed legal action against Ranbir Kapoor and Netflix for promoting banned e-cigarettes in the web series 'Ba***ds of Bollywood'. This raises significant concerns about the impact of media on youth and public health. Discover the implications of this directive and what it means for the entertainment industry.
Key Takeaways
- NHRC's directive highlights the responsibility of media in public health.
- Ranbir Kapoor and Netflix may face legal repercussions.
- Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act plays a crucial role.
- Impact on youth and societal norms is a significant concern.
- Authorities are required to act within two weeks.
New Delhi, Sep 22 (NationPress) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has instructed the Mumbai Police Commissioner to take necessary legal measures, including filing an FIR, against actor Ranbir Kapoor, the producers of the web series 'Ba*ds of Bollywood', and the OTT platform Netflix for promoting illicit e-cigarettes.
A panel led by NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo acknowledged a complaint from Vinay Joshi of the Legal Rights Observatory, who alleged that in Season 1, Episode 7 of 'Ba*ds of Bollywood', the actor was depicted using a banned e-cigarette without any warning or disclaimer.
The complainant stated that such portrayals can adversely affect young audiences, encourage unlawful behavior, undermine law enforcement, and jeopardize public health and ethics.
In its notice, issued under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, the NHRC noted that the claims, if substantiated, could signify a prima facie breach of Sections 4 and 7 of the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019.
According to the 2019 Act, Section 4 forbids the storage, use, and promotion of e-cigarettes in any manner, while Section 7 outlines penalties for individuals and companies marketing or promoting such prohibited items.
In its directive, the NHRC urged the Union Ministry of Information & Broadcasting to take suitable action and ensure that such content is promptly banned; it also requested the Commissioner of Police, Mumbai, to conduct an investigation and implement strict legal measures, including filing FIRs, against the actor, the producers, the production company, and Netflix for their involvement in promoting the banned product.
“The Registry is mandated to notify the Commissioner of Police, Mumbai, to commence an investigation into the identities and activities of manufacturers and importers of electronic cigarettes, and to undertake necessary legal actions, including lodging FIRs against Ranbir Kapoor and other parties involved in the advertisement, depiction, or promotion of the product in violation of the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019 and other relevant Criminal Laws,” ordered a panel led by NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo.
The apex human rights organization has requested an Action Taken Report (ATR) from all relevant authorities within a fortnight.
Point of View
I believe that the NHRC's intervention highlights a crucial issue regarding the responsibility of media in shaping societal values and health. This action is a reminder that entertainment should not come at the cost of public health and moral standards. We must support initiatives that safeguard youth from harmful influences while maintaining the integrity of creative expression.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NHRC's directive regarding Ranbir Kapoor?
The NHRC has directed the Mumbai Police to take legal action against Ranbir Kapoor for promoting e-cigarettes in 'Ba***ds of Bollywood'.
What is the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act?
The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019, prohibits the storage, use, and promotion of e-cigarettes in India.
Why is this case significant?
It raises concerns about the impact of media on young viewers and the promotion of illegal activities.
What actions can the Mumbai Police take?
The Mumbai Police can file FIRs and investigate the involvement of individuals and companies in promoting banned products.
What is an Action Taken Report (ATR)?
An ATR is a report submitted to the NHRC detailing the actions taken by authorities in response to their directives.
