Reliance Jio, Paytm extends an apology for using PM Narendra Modi's picture without permission

Reliance Jio and Paytm had used PM Narendra Modi's photograph full page advertisements on the launch of its service triggering massive controversy

Following the uproar after using Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s photograph without permission, Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited, and Paytm have extended an apology for doing so, the parliament was told on March 10.

The government had sent notices to both the companies for using the Prime Minister picture for commercial usage without appropriate permission. “Clarifications were sought by the department of consumer affairs from Paytm and Reliance Jio wherein they have apologised for their inadvertent mistake,” BJP leader CR Chaudhary told Rajya Sabha.

It was earlier reported that network operator Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited, headed by Mukesh Ambani who by the way is supposed to be the richest man in India may have to pay only Rs 500 for using Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s image their in print and electronic advertisements.

This came after it was noted that the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act 1950 prohibits the improper usage of emblems and names for professional and commercial purposes.

PM Modi’s photograph in full page of Reliance Jio advertisements on the launch of its service triggered a massive controversy with the opposition leaders including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal attacking him for “openly endorsing” Jio.  Congress went on to urge the Prime Minister to take action against the Reliance Industries if the company had used his image without permission.

Arvind Kejriwal did not refrain from mocking the Prime Minister by dubbing him as “Mr Reliance” and even accused him of promoting Jio services whose launch was announced by Mukesh Ambani in the month of September. However, the BJP claimed that the Prime Minister had not given any permission to use his image.

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