CCPA seeks public input on draft guidelines to prevent misleading ads in coaching sector

Consumer protection regulator CCPA has sought public comments by March 16 on draft guidelines for the prevention of misleading advertisements in the coaching sector.

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has prepared draft guidelines after detailed deliberations with all stakeholders including coaching institutes, law firms, government and voluntary consumer organisations, an official statement said.

"Public comments/suggestions/feedback are solicited and may be provided to the Central Authority within 30 days (until March 16, 2024)," it added.

The draft defines “coaching” and lays out conditions that fall under misleading advertisements.

For instance, coaching institutes are not allowed to conceal information related to the name of the course (whether free or paid) and duration of the course opted by the successful candidate or any other important information which can influence consumers' decision to choose their services.

They should refrain from making false claims regarding success rates, number of selections, or rankings of students in any competitive exam without providing verifiable evidence.

They should not falsely represent that students' success is solely attributable to the coaching, without acknowledging the individual efforts of the students.

Among other conditions, the CCPA said that the coaching centres should clearly state the extent of the coaching involvement in their success.

They should not create a false sense of urgency or fear of missing out that may heighten anxieties amongst students, or parents. They should not engage in any other practices that may mislead consumers or subvert consumer autonomy and choice.

The CCPA said the objective of the guidelines is to protect consumers from misleading advertisements in the coaching sector and would be applicable to every person engaged in coaching.

Misleading advertisements by the coaching sector will be governed as per the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 and the proposed guidelines will bring clarity to the stakeholders and protect consumer interests.

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