A Rajasthan lawyer has filed an FIR under fraud charges against Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Hyundai officials, alleging the actors endorsed a defective vehicle. Investigation ongoing.
What’s Happened So Far?
Bollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone, brands ambassadors for Hyundai, have been named in a fresh FIR filed in Bharatpur, Rajasthan. The complaint was lodged by advocate Kirti Singh, who alleges that the Hyundai Alcazar he purchased in 2022 exhibited serious technical defects. He claims these issues surfaced shortly after purchase and remained unresolved despite repeated attempts for resolution. The FIR also names six Hyundai officials. Authorities are currently investigating the extent of potential liability for the celebrity endorsers.
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Claims Made in the Complaint
Kirti Singh recounts how the dealership promised trouble-free performance when he paid a down payment of ₹51,000 and took out a loan of ₹10 lakh to purchase the car for nearly ₹24 lakh. Yet within a few months, the vehicle began malfunctioning: poor acceleration, engine vibrations at high speeds, and persistent warnings about engine mismanagement. Singh alleges the dealership acknowledged the manufacturing defect, but offered no solution. Feeling misled, he held the celebrity endorsers accountable, claiming that their legitimization played a key role in his decision to buy the car.
Legal Action Underway
A court in Bharatpur directed the Mathura Gate Police Station to register the FIR under various sections including IPC Section 420 (cheating), 406 (criminal breach of trust), 120B (criminal conspiracy), and various sections under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The FIR includes Hyundai’s MD, COO, dealership executives, and the actors for their roles in the alleged deception.
Investigations are currently ongoing, and further action will be based on evidence and testimonies.
Why Their Endorsement Matters—Legally and Ethically
Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, brand ambassadors can be held accountable for deceptive or misleading advertisements that influence consumer decisions. The CCPA has established that endorsers share responsibility for promotional claims. Indeed, the Supreme Court of India has recognized that celebrities can be held liable for wrongful endorsements.
Kirti Singh’s complaint highlights this legal precedent and frames the endorsement as a key contributor to his purchase decision.
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Industry and Public Reactions
Public response on social media has been swift and divided. Some demand accountability and stringent penalties for both the company and the endorsers. Others caution against rushing to judgment. Legal experts point out that while brand ambassadors hold persuasive influence, the primary liability typically lies with manufacturers. This case could serve as a litmus test for how endorsement liability is treated in future consumer disputes.
What This Means for Endorsement Culture in India
- Precedent Setting: This case may redefine legal boundaries of celebrity endorsements in India.
- Increased Due Diligence: Companies may face more pressure to ensure product reliability before associating with prominent figures.
- Consumer Awareness: Buyers are becoming more cognizant of the influence of celebrity endorsements in their purchase decisions.
FAQs
1. What is the essence of the FIR?
An FIR was filed by Kirti Singh — alleging a defective Hyundai car and implicating celebrity endorsers for misleading advertising.
2. Who is named in the complaint?
Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, and six Hyundai officials, as well as dealership representatives.
3. Which laws are invoked?
Sections of the Indian Penal Code (420, 406, 120B) and related provisions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Consumer laws also apply regarding misleading advertisements.
4. Can celebrity endorsees be held legally responsible?
Yes. Under Indian law, especially post-2019 reforms and Supreme Court rulings, endorsers can be held liable for deceptive promotions.
Conclusion
This FIR puts a spotlight on celebrity accountability in endorsements. As the legal process unfolds, the case could influence how brands and endorsers navigate advertising ethics in the future.