Print media urged to stop publicity of AYUSH-related claims for COVID-19 cure

As fake contents about Ayurvedic and Homeopathic cure to COVID-19 spread rapidly on social media, the Press Council of India on Friday (April 3) urged the print media to refrain from publishing stories and advertisements on AYUSH-related claims for the treatment of the disease.

In an order, the Ministry of Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) had directed Ayurvedic, Siddha, Unani and Homoeopathic (ASU&H) regulatory authorities in states and union territories to stop and prevent publicity and advertisement of AYUSH-related treatment in print, television and electronic media.

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It had called for necessary action against persons or agencies involved in contravening the relevant legal provisions and the guidelines of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

“The Press Council of India advises the print media to stop publicity and advertisement of AYUSH-related claims for COVID-19 treatment in order to prevent dissemination of misleading information about AYUSH drugs and services in view of the emerging threat in the country due to the pandemic,” the media watchdog said in a statement.