Legal troubles seem to be mounting for prominent Bollywood actors Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn, and Tiger Shroff in connection with the promotional campaigns for Vimal Elaichi. Following notices issued to all three actors by the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration, the department's Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has come forward with a strong statement, making it clear that regulations apply equally to everyone and no leniency will be shown at any level.
Strict Enforcement of Food Safety Regulations
Speaking during a media interaction, Tukaram Mundhe explained that this entire matter is tied directly to the strict implementation of food safety and standards regulations. He pointed out that one of the core provisions under these rules deals specifically with advertisements and misleading claims. According to him, the promotional campaign by the Vimal brand appears to be a surrogate advertisement promoting a restricted product like gutkha or pan masala. The commissioner stated firmly that everyone stands equal before the law and nobody involved in this chain will be left out.
Details of the Notices Issued to the Actors
According to reports, the notices served to Shah Rukh Khan, Tiger Shroff, and Ajay Devgn state that preliminary investigations reveal the advertisements in question promote the Vimal brand, which is primarily associated with pan masala. Notably, under an order issued by the Commissioner of Food Safety in Maharashtra on July 13, 2026, the manufacture, storage, transportation, distribution, and sale of pan masala have been completely banned across the entire state for one year under Section 30(2)(a) of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Accountability Across the Entire Supply Chain
Elaborating further, the FDA commissioner clarified that advertisers who violate these regulations will be served show-cause notices asking why action should not be initiated against them. Every single person involved in this entire supply chain remains accountable. This law applies equally in both rural and urban areas. Anyone engaged in manufacturing, storing, selling, or processing these items will not escape action.
Hefty Penalties Under Food Safety Acts
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration has intensified its crackdown against the violation of food safety guidelines. The department cited Section 24 of the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006, which completely prohibits misleading or deceptive advertisements regarding food products. Additionally, pointing to Section 53, the FDA made it clear that individuals found participating in such advertisements can face heavy financial penalties of up to 10 lakh rupees. This step is part of a broader ongoing campaign to enforce food safety norms rigorously across the state.
