Paediatrician faces pharma legal heat

Hyderabad: Pharma companies have issued legal notices to Hyderabad-based paediatrician Dr Sivaranjani after her campaign against misleading “ORS” labels prompted regulatory action by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. The authority confirmed a ban on misuse of the term “ORS,” aiming to protect consumers—especially children—from non-therapeutic drinks marketed as medical solutions.

The dispute highlights tensions between public health advocacy and corporate interests. It may be noted that Dr Sivaranjani raised concerns that some commercial drinks were packaged and marketed in ways that could be mistaken for Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), a medically prescribed therapy for dehydration. She warned that caregivers might unknowingly choose sugary substitutes over genuine ORS.

Following sustained advocacy, the FSSAI issued directives in October 2025 restricting misleading branding, marking a significant regulatory shift. Companies, including Johnson & Johnson Pte Ltd and Kenvue Inc, allege her posts are “false, misleading, and defamatory,” particularly regarding products earlier sold under the ORSL label.

Dr Sivaranjani maintains her statements fall under professional duty and public interest. She cites constitutional free speech protections and the “fair comment” exception under Indian defamation law, arguing that doctors must guide patients on products sold alongside essential therapies.

Addressing claims referencing a Delhi High Court observation that products were “not unsafe,” she clarified her critique targets misbranding—not product safety. She argues misleading presentation alone can create health risks.