Central Consumer Protection Authority Releases Guidelines For Prevention Of Misleading Advertisement In Coaching Sector
On 13th November, Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) released guidelines for prevention of misleading advertisement in coaching sector. The guidelines have been released by exercising powers under Section 18 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. Section 18 empowers the Central Authority to regulate matters related to consumer rights violations, unfair trade practices...
On 13th November, Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) released guidelines for prevention of misleading advertisement in coaching sector. The guidelines have been released by exercising powers under Section 18 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
Section 18 empowers the Central Authority to regulate matters related to consumer rights violations, unfair trade practices and false or misleading advertisements that harm the interests of consumers.
Conditions Under Which Advertisements Will Be Considered Misleading
These guidelines state that coaching centers engaging in deceptive advertising practices such as making false claims about course offerings, faculty credentials, fees and refund policies will be held accountable.
Additionally advertising exaggerated success rates like guaranteeing job security or a high rank in exams or falsely representing the quality of services and facilities will be considered misleading.
Furthermore coaching centers that create a false sense of urgency or scarcity pressuring potential students to make immediate decisions also fall under the purview of misleading advertising.
Obligations of Every Person Engaged in Coaching
Firstly, they are required to disclose important details such as the rank secured by candidates, the name and duration of the course as well as whether the course is paid.
Additionally advertisements must include candidate photographs and all disclaimers or important information should be displayed prominently. The font for the disclaimer and key details must match that used for claims in the advertisement.
Moreover, coaching centers are obligated to accurately represent their services, facilities, resources and infrastructure,without exaggeration.
If applicable they must clearly indicate that their courses are recognized and approved by relevant authorities like the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) or the University Grants Commission (UGC).
Another important obligation is that coaching centers must make efforts to engage with the National Consumer Helpline for consumer support.
Lastly, coaching institutes are prohibited from using a candidate name, photograph, testimonial or videos in advertisements without their written consent which must be obtained after the candidate's selection.
Central Consumer Protection Authority Notification
Date – 13.10.24