In an era where digital content spreads rapidly, the responsibility of influencers and experts to provide accurate information has never been more critical. A recent incident involving Dettol, a widely recognized antiseptic brand, underscores the legal and ethical challenges that arise when public figures make potentially defamatory statements online.
The Controversy Unfolds
In April 2025, a podcast episode titled “Skin Mistakes You Didn’t Know! Tanning & Sunburn EXPOSED” featured social media influencer Raj Shamani and dermatologist Dr. Manjot Marwah. During the discussion, Dr. Marwah claimed that applying Dettol Antiseptic Liquid directly to the skin could be harmful, describing it as a floor cleaner unsuitable for skin use and alleging it could delay wound healing. These statements were further amplified through an Instagram reel captioned “Never Use Dettol on Your Skin,” which garnered over 2.4 million views.
Reckitt Benckiser, the manufacturer of Dettol, responded by filing a defamation lawsuit against Shamani, Marwah, and another influencer, Ritik Chaturvedi. The company asserted that the claims were “false, misleading, disparaging, and defamatory,” emphasizing that Dettol has been a licensed antiseptic product approved for skin use in India since 1936 and is classified as a drug under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
Legal Proceedings and Settlements
Following the lawsuit, Raj Shamani agreed to edit and remove the specific segment of the podcast referencing Dettol, complying with a directive from the Delhi High Court to complete the edits within 24 hours and refrain from reuploading the original content. This led to an amicable settlement between Shamani and Reckitt Benckiser.
However, Reckitt decided to continue legal proceedings against Dr. Marwah, citing concerns over her repeated comments and the potential for ongoing reputational harm. The company highlighted that despite initial removals, Marwah had posted additional content discussing the court proceedings and reiterating her claims, raising doubts about future compliance.
Broader Legal Context
This case emerges against a backdrop of increasing legal scrutiny over the responsibilities of influencers and public figures in India. In a notable decision, the Supreme Court of India emphasized that celebrities and social media influencers are equally liable for endorsing misleading advertisements. The Court stated, “Endorsements by public figures, influencers, and celebrities go a long way. It is imperative for them to act with responsibility in endorsing advertisements and taking responsibility for the same.” This ruling underscores the necessity for endorsers to possess adequate knowledge about the products they promote and to ensure their statements are not deceptive.
Furthermore, the Court directed that broadcasters and print media must file self-declaration forms before airing or publishing advertisements, ensuring compliance with existing regulations. These measures aim to enhance transparency and protect consumer interests in the face of potentially misleading promotional content.
Implications for Influencers and Content Creators
The Dettol podcast controversy serves as a cautionary tale for influencers and content creators, particularly those operating in sensitive sectors like health and wellness. It highlights the importance of verifying information before dissemination and the potential legal consequences of spreading unsubstantiated claims.
As digital platforms continue to evolve, the lines between personal opinion and professional advice can blur, making it imperative for content creators to exercise due diligence. This includes consulting credible sources, understanding the regulatory landscape, and being mindful of the influence their words can wield over public perception and behavior.
Conclusion
The intersection of digital content creation and legal accountability is becoming increasingly complex. The Dettol case underscores the need for a balanced approach that respects freedom of expression while safeguarding against the dissemination of potentially harmful misinformation. As the digital landscape continues to expand, fostering a culture of responsibility and integrity among influencers and experts is essential to maintain public trust and uphold the standards of truthful communication.
Sources:
- https://ground.news/article/dettol-rebuts-podcast-claims-labels-criticism-as-unscientific-and-malicious?utm_
- https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/misleading-ads-case-influencers-celebrities-should-take-responsibility-for-product-promotion-says-sc-428667-2024-05-07?utm_s
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