Coaching Institutes: On Wednesday, the government issued new guidelines to curb misleading advertising by coaching institutes, aimed at protecting students from exaggerated claims. The rules, developed by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), prohibit institutes from making false claims, such as promising 100% selection or guaranteed job placement. Additionally, institutes cannot use names, photos, or testimonials of successful candidates without obtaining their written consent.
Purpose of the Guidelines
The CCPA introduced these guidelines in response to multiple complaints on the National Consumer Helpline about deceptive advertising practices. According to Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare, the intention behind these regulations is to uphold consumer rights without hindering the operations of coaching centres. “The guidelines are intended to ensure transparency and inform prospective students adequately,” Khare stated.
Enforcement Actions Taken
Since the guidelines were drafted, the CCPA has already issued 54 notices to non-compliant institutes, with penalties totaling approximately Rs 54.60 lakh. The penalties aim to deter institutes from making unsupported claims and encourage ethical advertising practices.
Scope of the Guidelines
The guidelines define coaching broadly, encompassing academic support, study programmes, and tuition, while excluding activities such as sports, counselling, and creative fields. All forms of advertising related to coaching services, including online and offline media, fall under these new rules, ensuring that claims align with consumer protection standards.
Keep watching our YouTube Channel ‘DNP INDIA’. Also, please subscribe and follow us on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and TWITTER
Discussion about this post