In a statement issued here, Ramadoss charged Godfrey Phillips of insulting Indian Independence Day by advertising with a slogan 'Taste of Freedom' from Aug 15 onwards for its cigarette brand Red and White Deluxe.
He said the company has also violated the Control of Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) by offering a lighter free on the purchase of the cigarette brand. The COTPA prohibits any gifts on purchase of cigarettes.
"The Tamil Nadu government should not be a mere spectator to these unlawful acts. Legal action should be taken against companies indulging in such unlawful actions as well as against the retailers of such products," Ramadoss said.
Officials of Godfrey Phillips were not available for comments when contacted by IANS.
Published 08 September 2011, 15:40 IST