President Droupadi Murmu’s appeal to film stars to think carefully before endorsing products that could harm public health has triggered a wider debate over government regulation and the sale of such products.

Speaking at the 72nd National Film Awards in Gujarat on Tuesday, Murmu urged popular film personalities to avoid promoting products that could pose health risks. While many social media users supported her message and called for greater responsibility from celebrities, others questioned why such products were allowed to be manufactured and sold in the first place.

Social Media Questions Government’s Role

The discussion intensified after a video of Murmu’s remarks was shared on the official X handle of the President of India. Several users shifted the focus from celebrity endorsements to the government’s role in regulating products considered harmful.

“If you know that it is a harmful substance anyway, then why don’t you just permanently ban it?” one user asked.

Another user questioned whether the government could take stronger action, writing, “Your Excellency, if you so desire, with just one command from you, a ban could be imposed on narcotic substances, granting India a new lease on life — but who knows, perhaps you too have your own constraints (sic).”

Calls for regulation extended to the entire supply chain, with some users arguing that restrictions should cover manufacturing, sale and promotion. Others raised questions about the revenue governments receive from products that remain legally available.

“I do not understand one thing: if something is harmful, do not give permission to sell it. The government will not stop its income, but it will ask actors or influencers not to endorse it (sic),” another user wrote.

Celebrities Also Face Scrutiny

Not all reactions focused on government action. Several users backed Murmu’s appeal and argued that celebrities should be more mindful of the influence they wield, particularly over young audiences.

“There couldn’t have been a better message than this – our heartfelt thanks to our President for stating it so clearly. The impact of such advertisements on the minds of young people is very profound,” one user wrote.

Other users described the President’s remarks as an “extremely effective message” and echoed calls for restrictions on products considered harmful.

In her September 22 speech, Murmu highlighted the influence of film stars over children and young people, saying their words and actions can shape the choices of millions.

“A true star is the one who spreads light, not darkness,” she said, urging celebrities to use their influence responsibly.

Pan Masala Endorsements Under Scrutiny

The debate comes amid increased scrutiny of celebrity endorsements of pan masala and similar products. In August, Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe issued notices to Bollywood actors Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff over their association with a pan masala advertisement.

Mundhe has said that the applicable rules can extend to manufacturers, sellers and celebrity endorsers, adding another layer to the ongoing debate over the responsibility of public figures involved in such promotions.

Murmu Speaks At 72nd National Film Awards

Murmu’s comments came during a ceremony focused on recognising achievements in Indian cinema. She presented the 72nd National Film Awards at Ekta Nagar in Gujarat, where actors, filmmakers and technicians were honoured for their work.

The ceremony was also the first time the National Film Awards were held outside Delhi.

Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan and Mollywood veteran Mammootty jointly received the Best Actor award, while Yami Gautam won the Best Actress award for her role in the 2024 film Article 370.

Murmu’s remarks, however, extended the conversation beyond the awards ceremony, prompting a broader discussion about the respective responsibilities of celebrities, manufacturers and regulators when it comes to products that may pose health risks.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share