An FIR has been lodged against Bollywood actors Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone, along with six Hyundai officials, in connection with a fraud case involving an allegedly defective vehicle. Both actors serve as brand ambassadors for Hyundai.
As per reports from NDTV, the complaint was filed by Kirti Singh, a resident of Bharatpur, Rajasthan, who claimed her Hyundai car had technical problems from the very beginning. She alleged that despite repeated complaints, the company failed to resolve her issues.
Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone were named in the FIR because, under Indian law, brand endorsers can be held liable if a product they promote is found to be defective or misleading.
The Consumer Protection Act, 2019, empowers the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) to take action against endorsers in cases of false or deceptive advertising. Kirti Singh stated that she purchased the car influenced by advertisements featuring the two stars.
The case initially reached CJM Court No. 2 in Bharatpur as a private complaint. Following the court’s directive, the Mathura Gate Police Station registered the FIR. The police have filed charges under Section 420 (cheating) and other applicable sections. Investigation is now underway.
Shah Rukh Khan has been associated with Hyundai India since 1998, when the company launched the Santro hatchback in the country, and has featured in multiple campaigns, including the launch of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric SUV at Auto Expo 2023. Deepika Padukone joined as a Hyundai brand ambassador in December 2023.
The pair recently appeared together in a campaign for the 2024 Hyundai Creta, portraying undercover agents to showcase the SUV’s features. Deepika has also endorsed the Hyundai Creta Electric. Last year, the Supreme Court ruled that celebrities and influencers share accountability for the products and advertisements they promote.