HC refuses to ban images of deities on products, cards

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court today refused to entertain a plea seeking ban on use of images of Hindu deities on packets of tobacco and other products as well as wedding cards and calenders, saying that respect to God is an issue of “personal sentiments”. The petitioner has said use of pictorial representations of Hindu deities and religious symbols on packaging materials should be banned as their disposal in garbage disrespects the sentiments of Hindus. [caption id=“attachment_1365565” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  Representational image. Reuters[/caption] “Respect to the God is a matter of personal sentiments and it does not require any moral education,” a bench of Chief Justice N V Ramana and Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw said. It also said, “These people and companies love their god. That is why they are using them in their products. How can you restrict people from keeping photos of some people.” The bench said if such orders are passed then the persons using such images will approach it claiming infringement of their rights. Sensing the disinclination of the bench, the petitioner withdrew the case and said that he will approach the Law Ministry with the representation on the issue. PTI