Forensic Test Ordered on Salman Khan’s Signature in Pan-Masala Advertisement Case
A district consumer disputes redressal commission in Kota has ordered a forensic handwriting and signature examination of documents submitted on behalf of Bollywood actor Salman Khan in a consumer complaint alleging misleading pan-masala advertisements. The order follows objections raised by the complainant over the authenticity of Khan’s signature on a power-of-attorney filed before the court.
The commission has also directed Salman Khan to appear in person at the next hearing on January 20, 2026, along with the notary who attested the disputed document.
Why the court ordered forensic verification
According to court proceedings reported by national media, the complainant argued that the signature on the power-of-attorney submitted by Khan’s representatives did not match known specimens of his signature, including signatures available on earlier judicial records.
After examining the objection, the consumer court held that the discrepancy was serious enough to warrant scientific verification, and directed that the document be examined by a government forensic science laboratory or an authorised forensic expert.
The court noted that the authenticity of the power-of-attorney is central to determining whether the defence documents filed on Khan’s behalf are legally valid.
The complaint: misleading pan-masala advertisements
The case originates from a complaint filed on October 15, 2025, against Rajshree Pan Masala and Salman Khan as its brand ambassador. The complainant alleges that the advertisements falsely promoted the product as “saffron-infused pan masala” or “saffron-infused cardamom”.
The petition argues that genuine saffron is prohibitively expensive, that the advertised claims are misleading and deceptive, and that celebrity endorsement amplifies consumer trust, especially among youth.
What forensic handwriting examination will involve
Court-ordered handwriting and signature analysis in India typically includes the examination of questioned documents, comparison with admitted signatures from reliable sources, microscopic analysis of strokes, pen pressure, spacing and rhythm, and the submission of a written expert opinion to the court.
Legal consequences if forgery is established
If the signature is found to be inauthentic, the court may reject the power-of-attorney and initiate proceedings for forgery, fabrication of evidence, or perjury against those responsible. If found genuine, the defence is likely to rely on the expert opinion to counter the allegation.
Why this case matters
- It highlights increasing scrutiny of celebrity endorsements.
- It underscores the growing role of forensic science in consumer litigation.
- It shows how procedural documents can become critical forensic evidence.
What happens next
The consumer court has fixed January 20, 2026, as the next hearing date. The forensic report, if completed by then, will be examined along with the personal appearances ordered by the court.
Sources:
Times of India — Consumer court orders forensic test of Salman Khan’s signature in pan masala case
Economic Times — Pan masala ads case: Consumer court orders forensic test of Salman Khan’s sign on power of attorney
The Tribune (PTI) — Pan masala ad ‘misleading’: Consumer court orders forensic test of Salman Khan’s sign
Rediff News (PTI) — Forensic test of Salman Khan’s signature ordered by consumer court
