Nandamuri Balakrishna who has recently started doing brand ads. He recently did a jewellery ad for Vega Sri Gold and Diamonds brand. He was seen wearing a tiger claw pendant in the ad and posters. This ignited controversy among wildlife enthusiasts and caretakers. Under the wildlife protection act 1972, wearing or displaying animal parts is a punishable offence.
If anyone displays animal parts or using them in ornaments is illegal as per law. Many are saying in the ad where Balayya wore an ornament with a tiger claw pendant is an original tiger claw. Also says that anyone can sue him for that which is an offence in the eyes on law.
Actually a disclaimer should be aired before the ad and follow a certain protocol. Where the ad makers and ad agency is clearly unaware of this and now found them in trouble. Forest department has the right to initiate proceeding against this advertisement. Any consumer, retailer or advertiser can also file a complaint with advertising standards council of India.
Makers of advertisements should take care of such issues especially when they are spending huge amounts and Featuring big stars in their advertisements. Otherwise, they tend to tarnish the image of stars and their brand too with legal tussles.