Bengaluru: The Malleshwaram Police Station registered a case on February 19 against a dermatologist for allegedly spreading misinformation about Karnataka Milk Federation’s Nandini milk and dairy products through social media posts.
Based on a complaint, police charged Dr. Sharanya Padma (MBBS, MD – Dermatology) under Section 353(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to making, publishing or circulating false information, rumours or reports that could cause public mischief, along with relevant sections of the Information Technology Act.
Allegations in social media videos
According to the complaint, the accused allegedly published videos on social media claiming that certain Nandini products, including cream buns, strawberry-flavoured powdered milk and specific beverages, contained toxic and harmful substances.
The videos reportedly claimed that regular consumption of these products could lead to autoimmune diseases and, in the long term, even cancer. It was also alleged that she questioned the composition of strawberry-flavoured milk powder, stating that it did not contain natural strawberries but artificial colours and preservatives.
Further, the posts allegedly questioned how the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) had granted approval for such products. The complainant contended that such statements could create fear among consumers and damage the reputation of the dairy brand.
Allegations against KMF
The complaint also stated that the accused had alleged that the Karnataka Milk Federation, a government-owned cooperative, was manufacturing and marketing unsafe products for profit. The posts reportedly described the products as harmful for consumption.
Police sources said that the complaint maintained that these claims were unverified and misleading, potentially causing alarm among the public and adversely affecting the livelihood of thousands of dairy farmers associated with the cooperative.
KMF refutes claims
In a press release dated February 18, KMF strongly refuted the allegations, terming them baseless and misleading. The federation clarified that it strictly adheres to all food safety standards and regulations prescribed by statutory authorities, including FSSAI.
KMF stated that Nandini milk and milk products undergo regular quality checks and comply with established food safety norms. It assured consumers that all its products are safe for consumption.
The federation further said that the social media posts had caused unnecessary confusion among millions of consumers who have trusted the Nandini brand for decades. It emphasised that spreading unverified information could undermine public confidence and harm cooperative institutions built over several decades.
Legal provisions invoked
Section 353(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita addresses the publication or circulation of false information that may incite fear, alarm or public disorder. The relevant provisions of the IT Act deal with the misuse of electronic platforms for spreading such content.
Police officials confirmed that an investigation is under way to ascertain the intent, reach and impact of the posts. Authorities are likely to examine the content of the videos, the context in which they were made and whether expert opinions or scientific evidence were cited.
Wider implications
The case has sparked discussion on the responsibility of medical professionals and influencers while making public statements about food products and health risks. Legal experts note that while freedom of speech allows individuals to express opinions, making unverified claims that may cause public panic can attract legal consequences.
At the same time, they point out that due process must be followed to determine whether the statements were misleading, defamatory or made in good faith.
As the investigation proceeds, police are expected to record statements from the complainant, representatives of KMF and the accused doctor. The outcome of the probe will depend on the evidence gathered and legal scrutiny of the content shared online.
For now, KMF has reiterated its assurance to consumers that Nandini products meet all statutory safety standards and continue to be safe for daily consumption.