The Kota District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has ordered a forensic examination of Bollywood actor Salman Khan’s signature concerning a pan masala advertisement. Salman Khan has been directed to appear in person on January 20, along with relevant documents and the notary involved. The order follows objections raised by BJP leader and advocate Indramohan Singh Honey regarding the authenticity of Salman Khan’s signature on the power of attorney and court submission.
The complainant, Indramohan Singh Honey, requested a forensic verification of the signatures, citing discrepancies. In response, the consumer court mandated that the signature be scrutinized by a state-authorized agency or a Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL). This directive was issued under Section 38(9)(d) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and Section 73(2) of the Indian Evidence Act.
Salman Khan has been instructed to personally appear on the next hearing date alongside advocate R.C. Choubey, who notarized the power of attorney and the submitted reply. Allegations by Indramohan Singh Honey suggest that the documents filed on behalf of Salman Khan lack his genuine signature, differing from those previously made by the actor. The petition, lodged in the Kota Consumer Court against Salman Khan and Rajshree Pan Masala Company, accuses them of deceptive advertising.
Salman Khan, in his response filed on November 27, dismissed the complaint as groundless, contending that any action should be directed to the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA). His legal team clarified that the advertisement pertains to silver-coated cardamom, not saffron-infused pan masala, refuting all claims. The court will reconvene on January 20 to assess the forensic examination progress and subsequent steps.
