An FIR has been filed against Bollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone, along with six others from Hyundai. FIR registered in fraud case involving a vehicle with alleged manufacturing defects. The actors serve as brand ambassadors for Hyundai.
Customer fill complaint against Shah Rukh Khan over technical issues in Hyundai
The complaint was made by Kirti Singh, a resident of Bharatpur in Rajasthan. She claimed that her Hyundai car had technical issues from the start. She alleged that the company did not respond to her repeated complaints.
Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone were included in the FIR because Indian law holds brand ambassadors responsible if the products they sell are found to be defective or misleading. The Consumer Protection Act, 2019, allows the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) to impose fines on endorsers for false or misleading advertisements. Kirti Singh said that she bought the car based on advertisements featuring the stars.
The case was initially brought to the CJM Court No. 2 in Bharatpur as a private complaint. The court instructed Mathura Gate Police Station to file an FIR. Following the court’s orders, police have opened a case under Section 420 (cheating) and other relevant sections. Bharatpur police are now investigating the case.
SRK as brand ambassadors of Hyundai
Shah Rukh Khan linked to Hyundai India since 1998, the year the Hyundai Santro was introduced to the Indian market. He has participated in several campaigns, including the launch of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric SUV at Auto Expo 2023. Deepika Padukone became a Hyundai brand ambassador in December 2023.
A recent advertisement featuring both Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone promoted the 2024 Hyundai Creta. In the ad, they take on the role of undercover agents, demonstrating the SUV’s features. The story format campaign highlights the car’s capabilities.
Deepika has also appeared in campaigns for the Hyundai Creta Electric. Last year, the Supreme Court ruled that celebrities and influencers share responsibility for the advertisements they endorse.
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