In response to a contempt petition, the Central Government has notified the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad Court about the issuance of notices to actors Akshay Kumar, Shahrukh Khan, and Ajay Devgn. These notices are linked to their involvement in advertising for gutka companies.

During Friday's hearing on the issue, Deputy Solicitor General of India SB Pandey informed the court that the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court needs to form a special bench to address similar concerns. It was highlighted that the matter is expected to be adjudicated by the Apex Court due to its relevance and similarity to other cases.

Following the presentation of arguments, the bench scheduled the hearing for May 9, 2024.

Earlier, the bench headed by Justice Rajesh Singh Chauhan had instructed the central government to review the petitioner's representation. The petitioner had initially argued that actors and dignitaries, despite receiving prestigious awards, were endorsing gutka companies and advocated for action against them.

The petitioner contended that despite submitting the representation to the government on October 22, no action had been initiated concerning the matter.

Following the contempt petition, the high court had proceeded to issue a notice to the Cabinet Secretary of the central government. On Friday's session, Deputy Solicitor General SB Pandey notified the High Court that the Centre had taken action by issuing show cause notices to Akshay Kumar, Shah Rukh Khan, and Ajay Devgn.

It was brought to the court's attention that Amitabh Bachchan had taken legal action by sending a notice to a gutka company. This action was prompted by the company continuing to display his advertisement, despite his prior termination of the contractual agreement with them.

Case title - Moti Lal Yadav vs. Sri Rajiv Gowba, Cabinet Secy. Central Secrtt. Govt. Of India, New Delhi And Another [CONTEMPT APPLICATION (CIVIL) No. - 2833 of 2023]