Centre Seeks Public Input on Draft Guidelines to Curb Misleading Advertisements in Coaching Sector
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 17th Feb. The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has invited public feedback on the Draft Guidelines for Prevention of Misleading Advertisement in the Coaching Sector. The draft guidelines, accessible on the Department of Consumer Affairs’ website via this link: Public Comments Letter, aim to address deceptive advertising practices prevalent in the coaching industry.
Stakeholders, including coaching institutes, law firms, government bodies, and voluntary consumer organizations, participated in a consultation session on Misleading Advertisement in the Coaching Sector held on January 8, 2024. The consensus emerging from the meeting underscored the necessity for the CCPA to formulate guidelines to curb misleading advertisements in this sector.
Crafted after extensive deliberations with stakeholders, the draft guidelines outline conditions for misleading advertisements in the coaching sector. These include concealing important information, making false success claims, and creating a false sense of urgency or fear among consumers.
The proposed guidelines define “Coaching” as tuition, instructions, academic support, or guidance provided by any person. They aim to hold accountable those engaged in coaching who employ deceptive advertising practices detrimental to consumer interests.
The objective of these guidelines is to safeguard consumers from misleading advertisements and ensure transparency and consumer protection in the coaching sector. By soliciting public feedback, the CCPA seeks to foster greater stakeholder involvement and address consumer concerns effectively.
Interested parties are encouraged to submit their comments, suggestions, or feedback to the Central Authority within 30 days, until March 16, 2024. Upon finalization, these guidelines will be issued under section 18 (2) (l) of the Consumer Protection Act 2019, aiming to promote fair practices and protect consumer rights in the coaching sector.
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