Vajiram and Ravi IAS Study Centre Fined for Misleading Advertising Practices
Central Consumer Protection Authority Takes Action
Photo: IANS
New Delhi, May 30: The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has levied a fine of ₹7,00,000 on Vajiram and Ravi IAS Study Centre for engaging in deceptive advertising by intentionally withholding crucial information.
The CCPA, led by Chief Commissioner Nidhi Khare and Commissioner Anupam Mishra, issued this ruling after determining that the coaching center made exaggerated claims and prominently featured the names, images, and accomplishments of candidates who succeeded in the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2023, while failing to disclose significant details about the specific courses those candidates had taken.
This decision was made to safeguard consumer rights and ensure that no misleading advertisements are disseminated regarding any goods or services, in accordance with the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
The agency highlighted that the Interview Guidance Programme (IGP) only begins after a candidate has successfully passed both the Preliminary and Mains stages of the UPSC CSE, which are two highly competitive phases where the institute had no academic involvement.
By showcasing these successful candidates alongside promotions for comprehensive paid coaching programs without clarifying the specific courses they attended, the institute misled potential students into believing that these candidates were products of its full-length coaching offerings, as stated by the CCPA.
To date, the CCPA has issued over 60 notices to various coaching institutes for misleading advertisements and unfair trade practices, aiming to protect student interests and enhance transparency within the coaching industry.
In total, the CCPA has imposed fines exceeding ₹1.46 crore on coaching centers that prepare students for exams such as the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE), IIT-JEE, NEET, RBI, and other competitive tests.
The CCPA noted that failing to disclose the specific courses attended by successful candidates, including whether they participated in full-length classroom programs, optional subject coaching, test series, or a brief interview guidance program, constitutes misleading advertising under the Act, as it prevents prospective consumers from making informed decisions.