CCPA Fines Coaching Centers for Misleading Ads

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has taken action against coaching institutes for misleading advertisements. A total of 19 coaching centers have been fined Rs 61.6 lakh for violating consumer protection guidelines. Additionally, 45 other centers have received notices for similar offenses.

These actions follow the recent introduction of "Guidelines for Prevention of Misleading Advertisements in the Coaching Sector." These guidelines, issued by the CCPA on November 13, 2024, aim to curb false or deceptive claims made by coaching centers in their promotional materials. The goal is to protect students from unfair practices and ensure transparency in the education sector.

The government is actively working to address consumer grievances, particularly in the education sector. The National Consumer Helpline (NCH) plays a crucial role in this effort. Consumers can easily file complaints through various channels, including WhatsApp, SMS, and the NCH app.

The NCH has been successful in resolving numerous complaints, including those related to non-refunded fees from coaching centers. Through a focused initiative, the NCH has secured refunds totaling Rs 1.15 crore for affected students.

The Consumer Protection Act, 2019, empowers the CCPA to protect consumer rights and prevent unfair trade practices. This legislation provides a strong framework for addressing consumer issues in today's evolving market.