Reliance Jio may have to pay ₹500 as fine for using Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s picture in print and electronic advertisements without the permission. The law that controls prevention of an incorrect use of emblems and names of 1950 provides for this minor penalty for violating norms.
Minister of state for information and broadcasting Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore on Thursday had said that “no permission was granted by prime minister’s office” for using Modi’s photos in the ads.
On the other hand, Reliance Jio is yet to comment on the development.
While responding a question from Samajwadi Party MP Neeraj Shekhar, Rathore had acknowledged that the government was aware that Reliance Jio used the PM’s pictures in the ads.
The opposition raised questions about how the PM’s picture can be used by a private industry major to advertise its products. Apart from that they had also questioned the PM’s photographs featuring in ads issued by e-wallet ‘Paytm’ after PM Modi’s demonetisation move.
Shekhar asked if there is any regulation that allows PM from becoming a brand ambassador of a private firm. He also asked if PMO has taken any step against the company if norms have been dishonored. On which Rathore said, The Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act is administered by the concerned ministries.
As per section-3 of the Act, no person shall use any “specified” name or emblem for trade, business or any such activities without a permission of the central government or officers authorised by the government.
