Punjab Influencer Denied Bail After Hair Oil Hospitalizes 70 People

In a major verdict, the Punjab and Haryana High Court recently rejected a bail request for social media influencer Amandeep Singh, whose DIY (do-it-yourself) hair oil resulted in the hospitalization of more than 70 people. The event took place on March 16 at Sangrur's Kali Mata Temple where Singh applied his do-it-yourself oil on visitors, saying that it would fight baldness.

On March 16, Singh conducted a promotional camp at the Kali Mata Temple in Sangrur, where he offered a hair oil he personally formulated, claiming it could prevent or reverse baldness. During the event, the oil was applied to attendees’ scalps. Following this, more than 70 individuals reported symptoms such as scalp irritation, rashes, headaches, and nausea. Many of them required hospitalization.

Medical reports indicated that the product had not undergone any formal safety testing or regulatory approval. Local authorities launched an investigation, and Singh was arrested soon after.

After the incident, Singh was arrested and indicted for endangering public safety by distributing untested health products. At the bail hearing, the prosecution maintained that Singh's actions showed gross negligence and callous disregard for public health. The court agreed, highlighting the possible danger unmonitored health remedies pose and the influencer's duty of care towards his followers.

This case brings attention to the broader issue of health and wellness products being marketed online without scientific validation. In India and globally, the popularity of "natural" or "homemade" remedies has grown significantly. ^[1] However, health authorities and medical professionals have raised concerns about the lack of oversight, especially when such products are promoted by influencers with large online followings.

In a similar incident, Wakil Salmani, a Delhi-based barber and social media influencer, was apprehended in Hyderabad for promoting a "miracle" hair lotion. While some users reported positive results, others suffered side effects like burning sensations and swelling, necessitating medical attention.

Authorities have reiterated the importance of regulatory approval for products intended for public use, particularly when health claims are made.

References:

1. Ernst E. Adverse effects of herbal drugs in dermatology. Br J Dermatol. 2000 Nov;143(5):923-9. doi: 10.1046/j.1365-2133.2000.03822.x. PMID: 11069498.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Sakshi Thakar/MSM)