Post on 10-Jan-2023
Recommendations – December 2020
Complaints deliberated in the month of December
2020
2012-CCC.22
Complaints received directly by ASCI on OCMS /
contact@ascionline.org
1. W 2010-C.1650 Clensta International Pvt
Ltd (Clensta Lotion)
MEDIUM: Product Packaging
Website Advertisement (https://clensta.com/shop-
clensta/)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. World’s #1 COVID-19 PAP (prolonged Antiviral
Protection) Technology
2. 24-hour intensive protective care
3. Effective prevention against COVID-19
4. Kills 99.99% germs
Complaint:
“That it has come to our attention that a
Pharmaceutical Company by the name “Clensta” (
Hereinafter referred to as “the Company”) have
launched a “COVID Protection Lotion” ( Hereinafter
referred to as “the Product”) which claims to be an
advance bio-surfactant nanoparticle advancement in
the formulation to prevent COVID19 infection
without harming the environment and human health.
It is further claimed the product can be used over any
exposed part of the body including face and hands.
The application of the product keeps users safe from
viruses by disrupting it for almost 24 hours and
reduces the extended use of alcohol-based sanitizers
and washing hands multiple times a day and claims to
be in compliance with WHO, FDA & CDC.
That the above claim of providing “24- HOUR
PROTECTION AGAINST COCVID-19” by the
Company are completely “Unsubstantiated and
Careless”. That it is pertinent to mention here that no
clinically sufficient data specific to the above claims
is available making false claims without substantial
clinical evidence in media or otherwise is misleading
to patients and clinicians. That all such claims by
these pharma companies are nothing but mere
marketing gimmicks to promote themselves in the
market to sell their repurposed antiviral products to
the public and trying to gain big profits taking
advantage of the prevailing fear of spreading
coronavirus. That it is further stated that such claims
of discovering new medicines/products or inventing
new drugs/products by the company amounts to
misleading the public. Further, that the misleading
claims of the company are sending wrong signals
among the public, who are misled and may not take
preventive precautions to contain the spread of the
coronavirus. That the misleading statements by this
company of discovering new product for 24 HOUR
protection against COVID-19 will lead to further
spread of coronavirus as people may tend to move
freely without taking precautions in the hope that
they may get cured even if they are contracted with
the coronavirus. That it is also submitted that
Consumer trust in advertising relies in no small part
on the ability of the industry to effectively and
transparently police itself, This kind of situation is
very precarious for the society and would result in
complete mistrust among the customers. That it is
requested that an Inquiry be initiated against the
company to check the veracity of the claims so made
and the Company must be restrained from
advertising, selling and making any kind of public
statements on its claims of the product until and
unless an inquiry OR investigated be completed by
the Authorities.”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered
an opportunity to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat
to seek further guidance, which they did not avail and
submitted their written response.
Advertiser submitted point-wise reply to the
objections raised in the complaint.
Claim – “World’s #1 COVID-19 PAP (prolonged
Antiviral Protection) Technology” – Advertiser stated
that “the “world’s #1” is used for the technology of
the product i.e. Prolonged Antiviral Protection (PAP)
technology where they have already applied for its
Trademark vide application No. “4660115” and
patent application No. “202011023511”. Since they
are the first company in the world to file a patent and
did not find anything in patent search hence they
used the word World’s #1 PAP Technology. The
product is based on first of its kind Prolonged
Antiviral Protection technology incorporated in the
Clensta Lotion that kills 99.9% of viruses that’s why
the term “world’s#1” is used.”
Claim – “24-hour intensive protective care”-
Advertiser stated that “As per the standards, an
impression “*” over “24 Hours” has been
marked which implies “the terms and conditions”.
Recommendations – December 2020
Under the section “How to use the product” (given
on the label of the product) the term “Apply 15-20
minutes before exposure to the environment. Re-
apply 3 times in a day within the interval of 8
hours.” is intentionally mentioned in different font
and color on the label to bring to the knowledge of
the consumer. Hence, a message is conveyed that the
product protects from the pathogenic microorganism
for up to 24 hours when used following the
directions/instructions.”
Claim – “24-hour intensive protective care”-
Advertiser stated that “As per the standards, an
impression “*” over “24 Hours” has been
marked which implies “the terms and conditions”.
Under the section “How to use the product” (given
on the label of the product) the term “Apply 15-20
minutes before exposure to the environment. Re-
apply 3 times in a day within the interval of 8
hours.” is intentionally mentioned in different font
and color on the label to bring to the knowledge of
the consumer. Hence, a message is conveyed that the
product protects from the pathogenic microorganism
for up to 24 hours when used following the
directions/instructions.”
Claim – “Kills 99.99% germs” - Advertiser stated
that “Several antiviral and antimicrobial tests have
been conducted at the Government of India approved
a NABL accredited lab named “Arbro
Pharmaceuticals” which proves that the product kills
99.99% germs. A report in support of this statement
has been attached.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided – 1)
Video clip showing President of India talking about
the product, 2) Copy of the awards certificates,
photographs of the awards function, and media
coverage, 3) Print media coverage of their product,
4) Product Development Report, 5) Reports on
Clensta Covid-19 Protection Lotion, 6) Copy of
Website advertisement, 7) Front and back of Product
packaging, 8) Product Approval License.
The complaint and the advertiser’s response with the
claim support data was referred to the independent
technical expert of ASCI. The expert’s opinion was
shared with the advertiser for making any additional
submissions. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for IR at this stage based on the expert
opinion.
In response to the technical opinion, the advertiser
did not opt for an IR but sought for a meeting with
the technical expert, which was arranged by the ASCI
Secretariat through Zoom video conference.
Post meeting with the ASCI Secretariat and the
technical expert, the advertiser replied requesting for
an extension of 7-8 working days to submit their
additional data in substantiation of the claims. The
deadlines stipulated by Consumer Complaints
Council (CCC) procedure exist keeping in mind the
immediate and widespread impact that
advertisements have on the public. Consequently, any
action which is needed to be taken with respect to the
same is required to be prompt and urgent. It is for this
purpose that the deadlines, as stipulated, are set for
advertisers/broadcasters etc. and the CCC itself
makes it a priority to deal with every complaint
before it as expeditiously as possible. However, as a
special gesture, the advertiser was granted an
extension of additional three business days to
respond.
Advertiser subsequently responded and made the
following submissions – 1) Annexure-1 - Novelty
Patentability Assessment Report, 2) Annexure-2 -
Legal Opinion letter, 3) Annexure-3 - Antiviral
Report, 4) Annexure-4 - Antimicrobial Report, 5)
Annexure-5 - References for ingredients, 6)
Annexure-6 - Cell Cytotoxicity Report, 7) Annexure-
7 - FDA Certificate, 8) Product Development Report.
Based on the advertiser’s additional response, the
technical expert submitted his final opinion for the
CCC to consider. The CCC viewed the Website
advertisement (https://clensta.com/shop-clensta/) and
the Product Packaging and considered the
advertiser’s response as well as the opinion of the
Technical expert presented at the meeting.
The CCC observed that the application of PAP
Technology is pending under patent process. Several
breakthough observations about Nano technology /
Nano-biotechnology are under development.
Therefore it is yet to be finally decided and accepted
as it is under evaluation process. Therefore the whole
process needs to be assessed for efficacy and
efficiency of the stated effects. The new technology
product must be proved to be nontoxic by animal
studies for acute toxicity /subacute toxicity / chronic
toxicity and teratogenicity as the application on skin /
face may result in absorption through skin/mucous
membranes. Therefore the appropriate claim support
data is necessary.
As the claim of 24 hour intensive protection care is
made with three (3) times application 8 hourly
interval. It mathematically means only 8 hours
protection per application. Appropriate protection
time study was not submitted to substantiate the
claim. The adequate prevention studies claim support
data was also not submitted.
NABL accreditation is accepted in many countries
through MRA as it is based on international standards
for testing and calibration laboratories such as ISO
17025 or ISO 15189 according to the scope of testing
by the laboratory. The test reports submitted from
ARBRO lab is not on appropriate stationary of
Recommendations – December 2020
NABL accredited lab indicating that the particular
tests may not be within the scope of the NABL
accreditation of the laboratory.
The antimicrobial activity of Silver Nanoparticles on
surfaces is subject to many variables. It therefore
cannot be accepted without setting the scope and time
lines for antiviral / antibacterial activity without
appropriate claim support data for a specific product,
from an accredited testing laboratory.
The study for the product was done for anti-bacterial
and Antiviral activity with MS 2 phages which are
viruses of bacteria and not against animal /human
viruses including the currently circulating SARS-
CoV-2 virus. Testing using MS 2 phages is useful
only for preliminary screening of antiviral activity.
One needs to test against appropriate viruses if
required as claim support data.
The CCC noted that the advertiser has submitted in-
vitro study. However there was no in-vivo study
provided to prove the product efficacy in animals and
in humans, as efficacy on a normal skin and efficacy
in a test tube can be completely different. The data
was considered inadequate in the absence of clinical
trials done on humans.
Due to high risk / hazard of handling of SARS-CoV-
2 virus in laboratory, it has been necessary to develop
appropriate methods of testing. The use of less risky
surrogate virus, instead of highly pathogenic and
hazardous SARS-CoV-2 virus, is one such step
accepted by ASTM till actual standards are
developed and made available. This has helped in
developing testing methods without compromising on
the accuracy of the testing for SARS- CoV-2 virus, as
very closely related surrogate viruses belonging to
the same family ‘coronaviridae’ and same genus
‘Beta coronaviruses’ as that of SARS CoV 2 virus,
are used. Hence, it is justified to use a surrogate virus
for testing.
Further, the Australian Government’s Department of
Health, Therapeutics Goods Administration
published the “TGA Instructions for disinfectant
testing” in March 2020 which clearly state that
murine hepatitis virus (also known as murine
coronavirus) can be used as a surrogate if SARS virus
or COVID-19 virus cannot be used.
The CCC acknowledged the effort and dedication
behind the creation of this product and noted its
possibility of being effective if put to test. However,
in the absence of appropriate test reports the claims
remain unsubstantiated.
Based on this assessment, the CCC concluded that
the claims, “World’s #1 COVID-19 PAP (prolonged
Antiviral Protection) Technology”, “24-hour
intensive protective care”, “Effective prevention
against COVID-19”, and “Kills 99.99% germs”,
were inadequately substantiated. The claims are
misleading by exaggeration and are likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The Website advertisement and the
Product Packaging contravened Chapters I.1, I.4 and
I.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
NAMS Complaints:
2. @ 2011-C.1583 Sri SatyaSai University of
Technology and Medical Sciences (SSSUTMS)
MEDIUM: DainikBhaskar(*), Bhopal Edition, Main
Isuse (English) (14.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Job Guarantee with the Assistance of Logistics Skill
Council of India”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
Degree in Hospitality Management. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “Job Guarantee with the Assistance of
Logistics Skill Council of India” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, List of
students who were placed through their institute with
the assistance of Logistics Skill Council of India on
course completion, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
Recommendations – December 2020
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
made in supporting, limiting or explaining claims
made in advertisements. This complaint was
UPHELD.
3. @ 2011-C.1645 ICA Edu Skills
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://studyrankers.com)
(English) (0208.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% placements”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
and observed that the advertiser is providing
coaching for B.Com course. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “100% placements”, was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their Institute in
relevant industries on completion of their courses,
their appointment letters, list of students who were
not placed and the reason for their non-placement,
nor any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code, and ASCI
Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was UPHELD.
4. @ 2011-C.1717 Pristine InfoSolutions Pvt.
Ltd.
MEDIUM: DivyaBhaskar(*)Vadodara Edition, Main
Issue (English) (22.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. India’s Best now in Vadodara
2. The most demanded certifications by corporates
worldwide
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing training for
ethical hacking training course. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint, and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “India’s Best now in Vadodara” was
not substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of advertiser’s company
versus other similar IT services and Ethical Hacking
training companies in India, to prove that their
company is better than all the rest, nor the claim was
backed by a third party validation.
Claim, “The most demanded certifications by
corporates worldwide” was not substantiated with
any market survey data or with verifiable
comparative data of advertiser’s company versus
other similar IT services and Ethical Hacking training
companies in India, to prove that their company is
offering more demanded certifications courses by
corporates worldwide than all the rest, nor the claim
was backed by a third party validation.
Recommendations – December 2020
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The print advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs, as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
5. @ 2011-C.1719 Pandit Deendayal
Petroleum University-PDPU Innovation &
Incubation Centre (IIC)
MEDIUM: Ahmedabad Mirror(*), Ahmedabad
Edition, Main Issue (English) (23.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. PDPU was Awarded as the best performing SSIP
Grantee University in Private University Category
2. PDPU IIC was awarded as “Best Incubation Centre
for prominent IP culture” by IPPO for year 2017,
2018 & 2019
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser has made the claims on
the basis of the awards received by their University.
The CCC observed that the advertiser did not provide
copy of the awards certificate, reference of the
awards received such as the source, the basis of the
awards such as the details of the process as to how
the selection for the awards was done, details of the
criteria for granting the awards, survey methodology,
parameters considered, questionnaires used, names of
other similar Universities that were part of the
survey, the outcome of the survey, and the details of
the awarding bodies. Upon careful consideration of
the complaint, and in the absence of response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims,
“PDPU was Awarded as the best performing SSIP
Grantee University in Private University Category”
and “PDPU IIC was awarded as “Best Incubation
Centre for prominent IP culture” by IPPO for year
2017, 2018 & 2019” were not substantiated with
supporting ranking data. The source for the claims
was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code, ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
6. @ 2011-C.1752 ITM Group of
Institutions-ITM Business School
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://marugujarat.in)
(English) (13.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“ITM B-School 100% Placement”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an
opportunity to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat
to seek further guidance, which they did not avail but
replied requesting for an extension of three days to
submit their detailed response. The deadlines
stipulated by Consumer Complaints Council (CCC)
procedure exist keeping in mind the immediate and
widespread impact that advertisements have on the
public. Consequently, any action which is needed to
be taken with respect to the same is required to be
prompt and urgent. It is for this purpose that the
deadlines, as stipulated, are set for
advertisers/broadcasters etc. and the CCC itself
makes it a priority to deal with every complaint
before it as expeditiously as possible. However, as a
special gesture, the advertiser was granted an
extension of additional three business days to
respond.
Advertiser in their response stated that “For the
claim they are having 100% placement and thus it
has been stated. They can’t share the student data as
per the institute policy. They agree that it should
have been stated that the last year 100% placement.
Under the above circumstances they can make
changes such as Last year 100% placement instead
of stating only 100% placement.”
As the advertiser agreed to modify the said claim,
ASCI Secretariat offered the advertiser an option of
Recommendations – December 2020
resolving the complaint under IR option, for which
they were asked to withdraw the said claim across all
media. The advertiser was also informed that the
proposed modification of the claim, `Last year 100%
placement’ would not be acceptable in the absence
of adequate claim support data.
As the advertiser did not opt for an IR nor did they
submit data in substantiation of the claim, within the
given timelines, the complaint was processed for
CCC deliberations.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://marugujarat.in) and considered the
advertiser’s response. The CCC observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for PGDM exams
and is claiming to provide 100% placements to their
students. In the absence of claim support data, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “ITM B-School
100% Placement”, was not substantiated with
authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
placed through their Institute in relevant industries on
completion of their courses, their appointment letters,
list of students who were not placed and the reason
for their non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened the ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs, ASCI
Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements,
as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code.
This complaint was UPHELD.
7. @ 2011-C.1806 Ajeenkya DY Patil
University
MEDIUM: Times of India(*),Pune Edition, Main
Issue (English)(29.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Education Technology Innovation Award -
Competency Based Transcript System
2. Best Education Brand 2018-19 - Economic Times
3. Best Innovation in Education 2019 - Academic
Lions Award Management
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser has made the claims on
the basis of the awards received by Competency
Based Transcript System, Economic Times, and
Academic Lions Award Management. The CCC
observed that the advertiser did not provide copy of
the awards certificates, reference of the awards
received such as the source, the basis of the awards
such as the details of the process as to how the
selection for the awards was done, details of the
criteria for granting the awards, survey methodology,
parameters considered, questionnaires used, names of
other similar universities that were part of the survey,
the outcome of the survey and the details of the
awarding bodies. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims,
“Education Technology Innovation Award -
Competency Based Transcript System”, “Best
Education Brand 2018-19 - Economic Times”, and
“Best Innovation in Education 2019 - Academic
Lions Award Management” were not substantiated
with supporting ranking data. The source for the
claims was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code, ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
8. @ 2011-C.1807 Apex Welcare Trust-Apex
Hospital
MEDIUM: EP Amar Ujala(*), Varanasi Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi)(23.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
Recommendations – December 2020
"100% Job"
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
BPT, DPT, Radiotherapy, Emergency& Trauma
Technician, Dialysis Cardiology, CT, MRI, OT,
ANM, GNM, B.Sc.(Nursing), Post Basic B.Sc.
(Nursing) , BAMS, B. Pharma, and D. Pharma
courses. Upon careful consideration of the complaint
and in the absence of any response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “100%
Job” was not substantiated with authentic supporting
data such as batch size of students per year, detailed
list of students and evidence to support their
enrolment, contact details of students for verification,
list of students who were placed through their
Institute/hospital in the Healthcare industry on
completion of their courses, their appointment letters,
list of students who were not placed and the reason
for their non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines for
Disclaimers made in supporting, limiting or
explaining claims made in advertisements. This
complaint was UPHELD.
9. @ 2011-C.1808 Sri Lakshmi Ammal
Educational Trust-Bharath Institute of
Science & Technology (BIST)
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Coimbatore Edition,
Main Issue (English), (31.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"The Best Architecture School of the Year Award,
Higher Education Summit by Assocham & MHRD,
New Delhi"
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser has made the claim on
the basis of the award received from Assocham and
MHRD, New Delhi. However, the advertiser did not
provide a copy of the award certificate, reference of
the awards received such as the source, the basis of
the awards such as the details of the process as to
how the selection for the awards was done, details of
the criteria for granting the awards, survey
methodology, parameters considered, questionnaires
used, names of other similar institutes that were part
of the survey and the outcome of the survey. Upon
careful consideration of the complaint, and in the
absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, "The Best Architecture
School of the Year Award, Higher Education Summit
by Assocham & MHRD,
New Delhi" was not substantiated with supporting
ranking data. The source for the claim was not
indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code, Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
10. @ 2011-C.1809 Binayak Higher
Secondary School
MEDIUM: Sambad, Anugul Edition, Main Issue
(English)(18.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Recommendations – December 2020
Claims objected to:
1. Genuinely Best Science College of Angul District
2. Highest % Of 1st Division Passout Among All
Science Colleges of Angul District For 2018, 2019 &
2020”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
Science courses. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Genuinely Best Science College of Angul District”
was not substantiated with any market survey data or
with verifiable comparative data of advertiser’s
institute versus other similar institutes in Angul
District, to prove that their college is a better science
college than all the rest, nor the claim was backed by
a third party validation.
Claim, “Highest % Of 1st Division Passout Among
All Science Colleges of Angul District For 2018,
2019 & 2020” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative year for 2018, 2019, 2020, of the
advertiser’s college versus other colleges in Angul
District, to prove that they have higher % of 1st
division pass out than all the rest, nor the claim was
backed by a third party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The print advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs, as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
11. @ 2011-C.1810 Dwisha Consultants
MEDIUM: Divya Bhaskar(*), Ahmedabad Edition,
Main Issue (Gujarati), (15.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
1. Guaranteed IELTS*
2. Guaranteed Student Visa (UK/Canada)*
3. Guaranteed Work Permit/P.R.*
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing visa, work
permit to students for studying abroad – UK, Canada.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claims, “Guaranteed
IELTS*” , “Guaranteed Student Visa
(UK/Canada)*”, and “Guaranteed Work
Permit/P.R.*”, were not substantiated with detailed
list of students who have cleared their IELTS,
students who have received student Visa
(UK/Canada), and work permit/P.R through the
advertiser’s consultancy services, evidence to support
their enrolment including their contact details for
independent verification, and Certified copies of the
UK and Canada Visa, relevant documentation of the
work permit and P.R. The claims were also not
backed by a third party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The print advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs, as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
12. @ 2011-C.1811 Eagle Defence Academy
MEDIUM: EP Rajasthan Patrika(*), Jaipur Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi)(23.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"Must Visit Once For Assured Success"
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
Recommendations – December 2020
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
Air forces, NDA, CDS, Army, Navy, and Delhi
Police course. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Must Visit Once For Assured Success” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their academy in
Defence sector on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
made in supporting, limiting or explaining claims
made in advertisements. This complaint was
UPHELD.
13. @ 2011-C.1812 Engineers Point
MEDIUM: DainikBhaskar(*), AlwarEdition,
AlwarBhaskar (Hindi)(13.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1InAlwar District (Last 6 Year Result Above
90% In 12th Science, RBSE Result.)"
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
IIT-JEE,NEET, AIIMS, CPT/CS, Foundation, NTSE
, and Olympiads course. Upon careful consideration
of the complaint and, the CCC concluded that the
claim, “No.1 in Alwar District (Last 6 Year Result
Above 90% In 12th Science, RBSE Result.)” was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of
advertiser’s institute versus other similar institutes in
Alwar District, to prove that they are in leadership
(No.1) position, or through an independent third party
validation. The source for the claim was not indicated
in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
14. @ 2011-C.1813 Extol College
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Bhopal Edition, Main
Issue (English), (13.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"Rated No.1 In Academics"
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
career courses. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint and in the absence of response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, "Rated
Recommendations – December 2020
No.1 In Academics", was not substantiated with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s college
and other similar colleges, to prove that they are in
leadership position (No.1), or through an independent
third party validation. The source for the claim was
not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
15. @ 2011-C.1816 Pearson India Education
Services Private Limited- Crossland Education &
Careers
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan Times(*), Chandigarh
Edition, Main Issue (English)(30.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. British Council IELTS *Awarded For Best Results
2. Best Coaching &Results
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement. Upon
careful consideration of the complaint and in the
absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “British Council IELTS
*Awarded For Best Results”, with a copy of the
award certificate, reference of the award
received such as the year, source, the basis of the
award or the survey methodology followed to obtain
this information such as the details of the process as
to how the selection for the award was done, details
of the criteria for granting the award, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
institutes that were part of the survey, the outcome of
the survey, and the details about the awarding body.
The source for the claim was not indicated in the
advertisement.
Claim, “Best Coaching & Results”, was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s institute versus other similar institutes to
prove that they are better than all the rest in
providing coaching for the courses claimed, and their
results are also better than all the rest. The claim was
not backed by an independent third party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The print advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code, and
ASCI Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
16. @ 2011-C.1817 Folks India Institute of
Management and Hotel Management
MEDIUM: EP Amar Ujala(*), Agra Edition, My
City(Hindi)(29.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"101% job guarantee"
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
B.Sc., BBA, and MBA courses. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “101% job guarantee” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their Institute in
relevant industries on completion of their courses,
their appointment letters, list of students who were
not placed and the reason for their non-placement,
nor any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
Recommendations – December 2020
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines for
Disclaimers made in supporting, limiting or
explaining claims made in advertisements. This
complaint was UPHELD.
17. @ 2011-C.1818 Dr. D.Y. Patil Unitech
Society's -Dr. D.Y. Patil Arts, Commerce &
Science College
MEDIUM: EP Daily Sakal(*),SolapurEdition, Main
Issue(English)(17.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Placement Assistance
2. Best College Award', SPPU
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s college/institute is
claiming that it provides placement assistance to their
students. Upon careful consideration of the complaint
and in the absence of any response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that while the
advertiser may be providing placement assistance to
their students for getting jobs in relevant industries,
the use of 100% numerical is not relevant for
“100% Placement Assistance” claim. There cannot be
a percentage assigned to any assistance claim such as
40% or 80% assistance. The use of “100%” as a
descriptor in the claim is misleading by implication.
Claim, “Best College Award', SPPU”- the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Best College Award',
SPPU”, was not substantiated with a copy of the
award certificate, reference of the award received as
the source, the basis of the awards or the survey
methodology followed to obtain this information
such as the details of the process as to how the
selection for the award was done, details of the
criteria for granting the award, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
colleges/institutes that were part of the survey, the
outcome of the survey, and the details about the
awarding body. The source for the claim was not
indicated in the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and
I.5 of the ASCI Code, ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements, ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, . This complaint was UPHELD.
18. @ 2011-C.1819 Dr. D Y PatilVidyapeeth -
Global Business School & Research Centre
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Nagpur Edition, Spl
Oxford of The East Pune(English)(31.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"Best B-School of The Year 2020 Award in Asia
Education Summit & Awards, New Delhi"
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
BBA, MBA and PHD, and has made the claim on the
basis of the award received by them. However, the
advertiser did not support this claim with a copy of
the award certificate, reference of the award
received as the source, the basis of the awards or the
survey methodology followed to obtain this
information such as the details of the process as to
how the selection for the award was done, details of
the criteria for granting the award, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
Recommendations – December 2020
institutes that were part of the survey, the outcome of
the survey, and the details about the awarding body.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Best B-School of The
Year 2020 Award in Asia Education Summit &
Awards, New Delhi”, was not substantiated with
supporting ranking data. The source for the claim was
not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
19. @ 2011-C.1821 Ambiteous Commerce
Classes
MEDIUM: ABP Majha(*) (Marathi) (26.09.2020)
(20 Secs) (6:19:28)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Maharashtra’s No. 1 Commerce Classes”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the TVC and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for Commerce, CA,
CS, and CMA courses. Upon careful consideration of
the complaint and in the absence of response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Maharashtra’s No. 1 Commerce Classes” was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s classes versus other similar classes in
Maharashtra, to prove that they are in leadership
position (No.1), or through an independent third party
validation. The source for the claim was not indicated
in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The TVC contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
20. @ 2011-C.1823 Chennai’s Amirta
International Institute of Hotel Management
MEDIUM: Sun TV (Tamil) (19.09.2020) (50 Secs)
(10:51:59)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assurance in top star Hotels,
Ships, Resorts, Airlines in Abroad and in India”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response through their
Advocates.
Advocate on behalf of the advertiser stated that “the
said advertisement is only a communication to the
general public of options available to students and
parents for students to earn while their pursue
courses with their client. Details of their client’s
courses/programs are available at their website
https://chennaisamirta.com/ and their client’s
counsellors available at their client’s premises and
over phone would guide prospective students and
parents over the specifics of the course, including
such opportunities to earn while pursuing education
with their client.”
This response being inadequate, ASCI Secretariat
requested the advertiser to provide verifiable
evidence of students who were provided jobs, along
with their names and contact details for verification.
The advertiser was also offered an option of IR for
which they were asked to confirm withdrawal /
modification of the said claim across all media.
In response to ASCI’s query, the Advocate on behalf
of the advertiser responded that “their client has
created a record in the Job Fair of 2016 and 2017
conducted by them by placing 2286 students in 160
reputed hotels in Job Fair 2016 and 2587 students in
180 reputed hotels in Job Fair 2017. The particulars
of the same, including media coverage and articles
published in magazines and newspapers are
available at
https://chennaisamirta.com/placements/job-fair-
Recommendations – December 2020
event/. The list of Students placed each year by their
client between 2016-2019 is Annexed as Annexure A.
Due to Covid-19 pandemic restrictions, most of their
client’s employees are working remotely and hence
do not have access to all details/files. Their client is
therefore providing documents as ascertained and
available with them within the short period of time
available. Their client is not providing the contact
details of the students as they are bound by
confidentiality. However, the same can be verified
from the respective employers.”
As claim support data, the advocate provided list of
students placed each year by their client between
2016-2019.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the TVC (in Tamil) and considered the advocate’s
response and the supporting data submitted with their
response.
The CCC observed that the annexure A of the
advocate’s response was a tabular summary of their
Placement list of 2016 giving details of students
name, batch, branch, hotel name, and the job
department.
The CCC did not consider the above data as an
authentic and verifiable claim support document to
show the placements achieved by their students, as
this data was not validated by a third party
certification as acceptable. The CCC observed that
the advertiser did not provide authentic supporting
data such as batch size of students per year, detailed
list of students and evidence to support their
enrolment, contact details of students for verification,
list of students who were placed through their
institute in top star Hotels, Ships, Resorts, Airlines
abroad and in India, on completion of their
courses, their appointment letters, list of students
who were not placed and the reason for their non-
placement, nor any independent audit or verification
certificate. Furthermore, the TVC did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
Based on these observations, the CCC concluded the
claim, “100% Placement Assurance in top star
Hotels, Ships, Resorts, Airlines in Abroad and in
India”, was inadequately substantiated. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
grave or widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The TVC contravened Chapters I.1, I.4 and
I.5 of the ASCI Code as well as ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
made in supporting, limiting or explaining claims
made in advertisements. This complaint was
UPHELD.
21. @ 2011-C.1824 Schoolnet India Limited –
Geneoesekha
MEDIUM: ABP Ananda(*) (Bengali) (17.09.2020)
(10 Secs) (7:56:43)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Bangla Language One and Only Online Platform”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the TVC (in Bengali). Upon
careful consideration of the complaint and in the
absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Bangla Language One and
Only Online Platform”, was not substantiated with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
coaching centre versus other similar coaching
centres, to prove that they are the only online
platform providing online coaching for Bangla
language. The claim was not backed by an
independent third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The TVC contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code.
This complaint was UPHELD.
22. @ 2011-C.1825 MIT Art Design and
Technology University (MIT ADT University)
MEDIUM: ABP Majha(*) (Marathi) (24.08.2020)
(30 Secs) (8:15:22)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Record for 35 Years @MIT
Group”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
Recommendations – December 2020
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the TVC (in Marathi) and observed
that the advertiser is providing coaching for
Engineering, Maine Engineering, Bio- Engineering,
Food Technology, Management, Journalism, Fine-
Arts, Music, Design, Architecture, Vedic Science and
Film & Television courses. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “100% Placement Record for 35 Years
@MIT Group” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data on year on year basis for 35 years as
claimed, such as batch size of students per year,
detailed list of students and evidence to support their
enrolment, contact details of students for verification,
list of students who were placed through their
university in relevant industries on completion of
their courses, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the TVC did
not have any disclaimers to indicate “Past record is
no guarantee of future job prospects” nor did it have
a declaration of the total number of students passing
out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The TVC contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code
and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in
supporting, limiting or explaining claims made in
advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
23. @ 2011-C.1826 Saraswat Pharmacy
College
MEDIUM: Prarthana(Oriya) (29.08.2020) (10 Secs)
(9:10:45)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the TVC and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for D. Pharm.
course. Upon careful consideration of the complaint
and in the absence of any response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “100%
Placement” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their college in relevant industries on completion of
their courses, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the TVC did
not have any disclaimers to indicate “Past record is
no guarantee of future job prospects” nor did it have
a declaration of the total number of students passing
out from the placed class. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The TVC
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code, and ASCI
Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was UPHELD.
24. @ 2011-C.1827 Seacom Group - Seacom
Engineering College
MEDIUM: News18 Bangla(*) (English)
(10.09.2020) (10 Secs) (8:22:39)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Placement
2. 100% Placement Assurance (Voice Over Claim)
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
Recommendations – December 2020
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the TVC and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for B.Tech., BBA,
BCA, BBA Hospital Management, MBA and MCA
courses.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “100% Placement”
and voice over claim, “100% Placement Assurance”
were not substantiated with authentic supporting data
such as batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their college in
relevant industries on completion of their courses,
their appointment letters, list of students who were
not placed and the reason for their non-placement,
nor any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the TVC did not have any disclaimers
to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The TVC contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines for
Disclaimers made in supporting, limiting or
explaining claims made in advertisements. This
complaint was UPHELD.
25. @ 2011-C.1828 Technique Polytechnic
Institute
MEDIUM: News18 Bangla(*) (Bengali)
(19.09.2020) (10 Secs) (7:14:30)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“West Bengal’s One and Only MBA Oriented
Polytechnic” (Voice Over Claim)
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the TVC (in Bengali) and observed
that the advertiser is offering coaching for courses in
various fields of engineering and technology. Upon
careful consideration of the complaint and in the
absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the voice over claim, “West Bengal’s
One and Only MBA Oriented Polytechnic”, was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s institute versus other similar institutes in
West Bengal, to prove that they are the one and only
MBA Oriented Polytechnic institute. The claim was
also not backed by an independent third party
validation. The claim is misleading by exaggeration
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of students. The TVC contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
26. @ 2011-C.1833 Ultra Trust, Madurai-
Best Dental Science College
MEDIUM: Dinakaran, Madurai Edition Edition,
Main Issue, (English) (17.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Placement Assured”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is offering coaching for
diploma in dental hygienist and dental mechanic
Recommendations – December 2020
courses, and is assuring placements to the students
on completion of these courses. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “Placement Assured” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their college in
Healthcare industry, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
made in supporting, limiting or explaining claims
made in advertisements. This complaint was
UPHELD.
27. @ 2011-C.1834 Swami Vivekanand
University
MEDIUM: EP NaiDunia(*),Gwalior Edition, Main
Issue, (Hindi) (16.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The Most Awarded University of MP”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s is providing coaching
for various professional / career based courses, and
claims to have received the “The Most Awarded
University of MP”. However, the advertiser did not
support this claim with a copy of the award
certificate, reference of the award received as the
source, the basis of the awards or the survey
methodology followed to obtain this information
such as the details of the process as to how the
selection for the award was done, details of the
criteria for granting the award, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
universities that were part of the survey, the outcome
of the survey, and the details about the awarding
body. Advertiser also did not provide verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s university versus
other similar Universities in Madhya Pradesh to
prove that they have received more awards than all
the rest, or through an independent third-party report.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “The Most Awarded
University of MP”, was not substantiated with
supporting ranking data. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers including
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
28. @ 2011-C.1837 Shri Shwetamber Jain
VidyalyaShikshaSamiti - S.J.College
MEDIUM: Rajasthan Patrika(*), Jaipur Edition,
Main Issue, (Hindi),(17.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Best College for Education”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement observed
that the advertiser’s is providing coaching for B.A,
Recommendations – December 2020
B.Com and B.Sc. (Maths) courses. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint, and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “Best College for Education” was not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s college
versus other similar colleges, to prove that their
college is better for education than all the rest, nor the
claim was backed by a third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
29. @ 2011-C.1838 Parmanand College of
Fire Engineering & Safety Management
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat, Aurangabad Edition, Main
Issue (Marathi) (29.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Job Assistance (eligibility 10/12 degree)”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that
no response was received from the advertiser prior to
the prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s college is claiming to
provide job assistance to their students. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that while the advertiser may be providing job
assistance to their students for getting jobs in relevant
industries, the use of 100% numerical is not relevant
for “100% Job Assistance (eligibility 10/12 degree)”
claim. There cannot be a percentage assigned to any
assistance claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The
use of “100%” as a descriptor in the claim is
misleading by implication and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters I.4 and I.5 of the
ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs. This
complaint was UPHELD.
30. @ 2011-C.1840 Shri Siddhi Vinayak
Group of Institutions (SSVGI)
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Bareilly Edition,
Main Issue, (English) (31.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that
no response was received from the advertiser prior to
the prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is claiming
that it provides placement assistance to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the advertiser may be
providing placement assistance to their students for
getting jobs in relevant industries, the use of 100%
numerical is not relevant for “100% Placement
Assistance” claim. There cannot be a percentage
assigned to any assistance claim such as 40% or 80%
assistance. The use of “100%” as a descriptor in the
claim is misleading by implication and is likely to
lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters I.4 and I.5 of the
ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs. This
complaint was UPHELD.
31. @ 2011-C.1841 Udupi Group of
Institutions, Manipal
MEDIUM: Vijay Karnataka(*), Mangalore Edition,
Main Issue, (English) (28.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Job Placement Assistance”
Recommendations – December 2020
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is claiming to
provide job placement assistance to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the advertiser may be
providing job placement assistance to their students
for getting jobs in relevant industries, the use of
100% numerical is not relevant for “100% Job
Placement Assistance” claim. There cannot be a
percentage assigned to any assistance claim such as
40% or 80% assistance. The use of “100%” as a
descriptor in the claim is misleading by implication
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters I.4 and I.5 of the
ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs. This
complaint was UPHELD.
32. @ 2011-C.1846 Hind Water - Hind Water
Purifiers
MEDIUM: Calcutta News (Bengali) (05.09.2020)
(15 Secs) (8:17:37)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Most Advanced Technology with 7 Stage
Purification”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the TVC (in Bengali) and observed
that the advertiser is promoting their range of water
purifiers. However, the advertiser did not provide
copy of the brochure, user manual, and technical
specifications of the product. Also, there was no
technical data given for advanced technology of their
purifiers, and 7 stage water purification process of
their water purifiers.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Most Advanced
Technology with 7 Stage Purification” was not
substantiated and is misleading by exaggeration. The
print advertisement contravened Chapters I.1 and I.4
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
33. @ 2011-C.1847 Anns International (Mr.
Cook) - Mr. Cook Home Appliances
MEDIUM: Mazhavil Manorama(*) (Malayalam)
(23.08.2020) (20 Secs) (13:24:55)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India’s First Energy Saving Combo”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the TVC (in Malayalam) and
observed that the advertiser is promoting their range
of cooking appliances. However, the advertiser did
not provide verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s product and other cooking appliance
brands, to prove that their energy saving combo being
promoted is the first in India than the others, nor the
claim was backed by an independent third party
validation.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “India’s First Energy
Saving Combo” was not substantiated and is
misleading by exaggeration. The TVC contravened
Recommendations – December 2020
Chapters I.1 and I.4 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
34. @ 2011-C.1850 Wallmaax Paints Private
Limited – (Wallmaax Stainex)
MEDIUM: Twenty Four (Malayalam) (23.08.2020)
(10 Secs) (7:29:23)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. India’s 1st Sanitized 99.9 % Anti Germ Certified
Paint
2. India’s First Sanitized Paint (Voice over claim)
3. Protect Walls from Bacteria and Virus for Two
Years (Voice over claim)
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “The name of the product
range per say is only Stainex that was launched in
2016 by them as an Interior emulsion Paint that can
be cleaned/washed easily. Now they have
incorporated an additive based on Nano Silver Ion
(Silver Nitrate) to add the properties of Anti-
Microbial to their existing range of Stainex from the
supplier Sanitized AG of Switzerland. Hence the
definition as Stainex Sanitized. This product was
tested Vs Japanese Specification JIS Z 2801 for anti-
bacterial properties through M/s Sanitized Ag of
Switzerland, done at BTS lab in Mumbai. Recently
SriRam Labs in India have initiated this test.
However, based on the details provided by their
Supplier wherein they had claimed that the product
that they are using in their Paint had been tested for
anti viral properties, the fact that they did not have
in-house facility or Indian lab for conducting the test
and understanding the need of the hour for such a
performing paint, they increased the dosage in the
paint for better performance and to be sure of anti-
viral performance as well. The certificate from BTS
lab through M/s Sanitized is for 99.9%+ killing of
microbes. Hence they had used 99.9% germs killed
for easy understanding of customers.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided a copy
of the Antimicrobial Certificate from Santized
Preservation India Pvt. Ltd, and Technical
information document from Sanitized AG of
Switzerland on ‘Antimicrobial additive for water-
borne coatings to prevent microbial attack in the
solid-state’.
As this response was not exhaustive and inadequate
as claim support data, ASCI Secretariat further
requested the advertiser to submit relevant product
efficacy data specific for each of the claims made.
The advertiser was also offered an option of
resolving the complaint under IR, for which they
were asked to withdraw the said claims across all
media.
As the advertiser did not opt for an IR nor did they
submit data in substantiation of the claims, within the
given timelines, the complaint was processed for
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) deliberations.
The CCC viewed the TVC (in Malayalam) and
considered the advertiser’s response and the data
provided in support of their response. The CCC
considered this claim support data to be inadequate.
The CCC observed that the advertiser did not provide
product specific details such as copy of product
approval license, product label, and product
composition details.
Advertiser also did not provide any support data or
evidence of comparison with other leading Paint
brands in India, to prove that the advertiser’s product
is ‘India’s 1st Sanitized Paint’ and ‘Sanitized 99.9%
Anti Germ Certified Paint’ as claimed.
In the absence of claim support data, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “India’s 1st Sanitized 99.9
% Anti Germ Certified Paint”, and Voice over claim
“India’s First Sanitized Paint”, were not substantiated
with verifiable comparative data, or through an
independent third-party validation. – should this be
added ? THIS CAN STAY.
ANY CERTIFIED PRODUCT APPROVING BODY
COULD ALSO VALIDATE THEM TO BE
INDIA’S 1ST
The CCC also noted that there were no test reports
submitted to establish the product’s efficacy in
protecting the walls from Bacteria and Virus for two
years. The CCC was of the view that the product
performance claim made would require substantiation
by appropriate time-kill assay reports.
Based on these observations, the CCC concluded that
the voice over claim, “Protect Walls from Bacteria
and Virus for Two Years”, was not substantiated.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The TVC contravened
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
35. @ 2011-C.1853 Chandra Brothers Medi
Med Pvt. Ltd (Chandra’s Chandraboti After 40
Anti Aging Capsule)
Recommendations – December 2020
MEDIUM: News18 Bangla(*) (Bengali)
(02.10.2020) (10 Secs) (6:44:39)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Increase Immunity Power and Disease Prevention
Capacity”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the TVC and observed that the
advertiser is promoting an `40 Anti Aging Capsule’
claiming that it has medicinal properties to increase
immunity power and disease prevention capacity.
However, the advertiser did not submit any product
specific details such as composition / licence / pack
artwork or samples. They also did not provide any
scientific rationale or clinical evidence of product
efficacy to prove the product’s ability in increasing
immunity power to fight against diseases.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of comments from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Increase Immunity
Power and Disease Prevention Capacity”, was not
substantiated. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to grave and
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The TVC contravened Chapters I.1, I.4
and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
36. @ 2011-C.1855 Dr. Virendra Swarup
Institute of Computer Studies
MEDIUM: Amar Ujala(*), Kanpur Edition, My
City(English)(23.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Top Placements
2. To be the best, Choose the Best
3. Biggest Educational Group of Northern India
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement observed
that the advertiser is providing coaching for
Undergraduate, post graduate, professional degree
courses, BCA, BBA, MBA and MCA. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint, and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “Top Placements” was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of
advertiser’s institute versus other similar institutes, to
prove that their institute is always in the leadership
position for providing top placements.
Claim, “ To be the best, Choose the Best” was not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of advertiser’s institute
versus other similar institutes, to prove that they are
better than all the rest in providing coaching for the
courses claimed.
Claim “Biggest Educational Group of Northern
India” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of advertiser’s group of institutes
versus other similar groups of institutes in Northern
India, to prove that their group is bigger than all the
rest.
The advertiser failed to establish these claims through
an independent third party validation. The claims are
misleading by exaggeration and are likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of students.
The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
37. @ 2011-C.1857 Gandhi Institute of
Management and Technology
MEDIUM: Ananda Bazar Patrika, Kolkata Edition,
Main Issue(English)(18.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Written Job Bond
2. CSR Award
Recommendations – December 2020
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement observed
that the advertiser is providing coaching for BBA,
MBA Hospital Management, Hotel Management,
Cruise line Management, International Hotel and
Tourism Administration, and Nursing courses. Upon
careful consideration of the complaint, and in the
absence of any response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Written Job Bond” was
not substantiated with detailed list of students who
had received written job bond through their institute,
copy of their offer letters, and their contact details for
independent verification by ASCI. The advertiser
failed to establish the same through an independent
third party validation.
Claim, “CSR Award”, was not substantiated with a
copy of the award certificate, reference of the award
received as the source, the basis of the award, or the
survey methodology followed to obtain this
information such as the details of the process as to
how the selection for the award was done, details of
the criteria for granting the award, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
institutes that were part of the survey, the outcome of
the survey, and the details about the awarding body.
The source for the claim was not indicated in the
advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and
I.5 of the ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines for
Usage of Awards/Rankings in Advertisements, and
ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs. This complaint was
UPHELD.
38. @ 2011-C.1859 Vidya Bharati
Educational Trust-GIET University
MEDIUM: Sambad, Bhubaneshwar Edition, Main
Issue(English)(13.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Awarded Best University for Campus Placement in
Eastern India on 27th February 2020 At Vigyan
Bhawan, New Delhi From Shri Pratap Chandra
Sarangi Hon'ble Union Minister, MSME, Govt. of
India(Organized By Asia Education Summit 2020
2. If you are looking for a University which gives
Guarantee of Campus Placement to all, your search
ends here
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
B.Tech, B.Sc, M.Tech , MBA, MCA, BBA, BCA,
MA and Ph.D courses, and is guaranteeing to provide
campus placements. They have also made the claim
on the basis of the award received at Asia Education
Summit 2020. However, the advertiser did not
provide a copy of the award certificate, reference of
the award received such as the source, the basis of the
award such as the details of the process as to how the
selection for the award was done, details of the
criteria for granting the award, survey methodology,
parameters considered, questionnaires used, names of
other universities that were part of the survey and the
outcome of the survey. Upon careful consideration of
the complaint, and in the absence of response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims,
“Awarded Best University for Campus Placement in
Eastern India on 27th February 2020 At Vigyan
Bhawan, New Delhi From Shri Pratap Chandra
Sarangi Hon'ble Union Minister, MSME, Govt. of
India (Organized By Asia Education Summit 2020”,
was not substantiated with supporting ranking data.
Claim, “If you are looking for a University which
gives Guarantee of Campus Placement to all, your
search ends here” was not substantiated with
authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
Recommendations – December 2020
placed through their university in relevant industries
on completion of their courses, their appointment
letters, list of students who were not placed and the
reason for their non-placement, nor any independent
audit or verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings
in Advertisements, ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
made in supporting, limiting or explaining claims
made in advertisements, as well as Chapters I.1, I.4
and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
39. @ 2011-C.1863 Buy Happy Marketing
LLP – Vcare Herbal Hair Oil
MEDIUM: Thanthi TV (Tamil) (26.09.2020) (30
Secs) (19:14:51)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Stop Hair Fall within 1 Month of Usage”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the TVC (in Tamil) and observed
that the advertiser is promoting their herbal hair oil
claiming that it stops hair fall within one month of
usage. However, the advertiser did not provide
product specific information such as copy of product
approval license, product label, product composition
details, and evidence of ingredients present in the
product. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of any comments or
response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “Stop Hair Fall within 1 Month of Usage”,
was not substantiated with product efficacy data. The
claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely to
lead to grave disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The TVC contravened Chapters I.1, I.4,
and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
40. @ 2011-C.1879 The ICFAI University,
Dehradun
MEDIUM: EP Amar Ujala(*), Lucknow Edition,
Main Issue (English) (23.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. ICFAI Business School-Ranked Best Business
School in Uttarakhand by Uttarakhand Educator
Summit, 2019
2. ICFAI Law School- 1st among Top Law Schools
of Uttarakhand (Govt.& Pvt.) by CSR-GHRDC, 2020
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response. Advertiser in their
response stated that “ICFAI Business School,
Dehradun was recognised as the Best Business
School in Uttarakhand by Uttarakhand Educator
summit 2019. This summit was jointly organized by
Divya Himagiri & Utarakhand Technical University.
ICFAI Law School, Dehradun has been ranked #1 in
Uttarakhand state in the Law School rankings
announced by CSR GHRDC 2020.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided a copy
of the award certificate, and a copy of one page CSR-
GHRDC Law Schools Survey 2020 published in
Competition Success Review of June 2020.
As this response was inadequate, ASCI Secretariat
requested the advertiser to provide the details of the
survey methodology with the outcome of the survey,
and any financial transaction involved for
participating and/or receiving such award. However,
the advertiser did not submit this data in time for the
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) meeting.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
considered the advertiser’s response. The CCC
observed that the advertiser’s response had only
assertions about the claims. The advertiser has made
the said claims on the basis of the awards and
rankings given to their University. The CCC noted
that despite ASCI’s request, the advertiser did not
Recommendations – December 2020
provide the details of the process as to how the
selection for the award was done i.e. survey
methodology, details of survey data, criteria used for
evaluation, questionnaires used, names of other
similar universities that were part of the survey, the
outcome of the survey and the details of the
awarding body. Advertiser also did not clarify
whether there was any direct or indirect payment
made by the advertiser to the Institution who had
granted the said awards – should this be added - ?.
Based on these observations, the CCC concluded that
the claims, “ICFAI Business School-Ranked Best
Business School in Uttarakhand by Uttarakhand
Educator Summit, 2019” and “ICFAI Law School-
1st among Top Law Schools of Uttarakhand (Govt.&
Pvt.) by CSR-GHRDC, 2020” were inadequately
substantiated and are misleading by exaggeration.
The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs, Clauses 7 and 8 i ii(ia)
ii(a b c) of the ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements as well as
Chapters I.1 and I.4 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
41. @ 2011-C.1890 Rustomjie Educational
Trust-Rustomjie International School,Jalgaon
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat, Jalgaon Edition, Supplement
Hello Jalgaon (English) (20.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Great Place to Study Certified 2018 (Awarded at
London Parliament, London)”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser, a group of educational
institutions, has made the claim on the basis of the
award received by their institute. However, the
advertiser did not support this claim with a copy of
the award certificate, reference of the award
received such as the source, the basis of the award or
the survey methodology followed to obtain this
information such as the details of the process as to
how the selection for the award was done, details of
the criteria for granting the award, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
institutes that were part of the survey, the outcome of
the survey, and the details about the awarding body.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Great Place to Study
Certified 2018 (Awarded at London Parliament,
London)”, was not substantiated with supporting
ranking data.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and
I.5 of the ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines for
Usage of Awards/Rankings in Advertisements, and
ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs. This complaint was
UPHELD.
42. @ 2011-C.1892 Sri Duttakrupa
Shaikshanik & Krushi Gramvikas Pratishthan,
Ghargaon/Shri Duttakrupa Foundation,
Ahmednagar
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat, Ahmednagar Edition,
Supplement Hello Ahmednagar, (Marathi)
(31.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% business and job guarantee to passed out
students”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement. Upon
careful consideration of the complaint and in the
absence of any response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “100% business and job
Recommendations – December 2020
guarantee to passed out students”, was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their Institute in
relevant industries on completion of their courses,
their appointment letters, list of students who were
not placed and the reason for their non-placement,
nor any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
made in supporting, limiting or explaining claims
made in advertisements. This complaint was
UPHELD.
43. @ 2011-C.1894 The IEM-UEM Group-
University of Engineering & Management
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Bhaskar(*), Jodhpur Edition,
Main Issue, (Hindi) (19.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“UEM Jaipur 1st in Jaipur by “Prestigious Times
Higher Education Rankings"
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s is providing coaching
for Engineering, B. Tech with specialization,
Management, Computer Science, Physiotherapy, and
Ph.D courses. The advertiser has made the claim on
the basis of the rankings given to them by
`Prestigious Times Higher Education Rankings’.
However, the advertiser did not support this claim
with a copy of the award certificate, reference of the
award received as the source, the basis of the award
or the survey methodology followed to obtain this
information such as the details of the process as to
how the selection for the award was done, details of
the criteria for granting the award, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
institutes that were part of the survey, the outcome of
the survey, and the details about the awarding body.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “UEM Jaipur 1st in Jaipur
by “Prestigious Times Higher Education Rankings”,
was not substantiated with supporting ranking data.
The source for the claim was not indicated in the
advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and
I.5 of the ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Usage
of Awards/Rankings in Advertisements, and ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs. This complaint was UPHELD.
44. @ 2011-C.1895 Seacom Skills University
MEDIUM: EP DainikJagran(*), Bhagalpur Edition,
Main Issue, (English) (30.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Job Assurance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
Engineering, Maritime Studies, Management (BBA,
BCA, BBA in Hospital Management) and
Management in MBA & MCA course. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
Recommendations – December 2020
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “100% Job Assurance” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their Institute in
relevant industries on completion of their courses,
their appointment letters, list of students who were
not placed and the reason for their non-placement,
nor any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines for
Disclaimers made in supporting, limiting or
explaining claims made in advertisements. This
complaint was UPHELD.
45. @ 2011-C.1896 Shri Ram Pharmacy (D)
College
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat, Akola Edition, Main Issue,
(Marathi) (25.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Assured Medical job for all those who have taken
admission here.”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “Here Job mean self Job or self
employment D.Pharm Pass out can get license work
in any medical Stores. It is mandatory that only
License holder can work in medical Stores.
D.Pharm pass out may have own medical Stores
He/She may work in any Private nursing Home or
with any Doctor. May also work as M.R. (Medical
Representative).”
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the print advertisement and considered the
advertiser’s response. The CCC observed that the
advertiser has only made assertions about their claim.
Advertiser is offering coaching for DPharm courses
and is assuring students of medical jobs on
completion on these courses. In the absence of claim
support data, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Assured Medical job for all those who have taken
admission here”, was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their college in healthcare industry on completion of
their courses, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to grave or widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The advertisement contravened
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code as well as
ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs, and ASCI Guidelines for
Disclaimers made in supporting, limiting or
explaining claims made in advertisements. This
complaint was UPHELD.
46. @ 2011-C.1897 Vakil Defence Academy
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Hissar Edition,
Main Issue, (Hindi) (23.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Success Guarantee
2. The only institute of region giving more than
10000 selections
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
Recommendations – December 2020
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
defence courses. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“100% Success Guarantee” was not substantiated
with detailed list of students who were placed in the
defence sector, with copy of their selection
(appointment) letters in Indian Army, and their
contact details for independent verification by ASCI.
The claim was not backed by an independent third
party validation.
Claim, “The only institute of region giving more than
10000 selections” was not substantiated with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
academy versus other similar defence
academies/institutes in the region, to prove that they
are the only institute who have given more than
10000 selections in Indian Army. The CCC noted
that the advertiser failed to establish the claim
through an independent third party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The print advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
47. @ 2011-C.1900 Teerthanker Mahaveer
University (TMU)
MEDIUM: Divya Bhaskar(*), Mumbai Edition,
Main Issue, (English) (25.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“TMU awarded by Hon'ble Deputy Chief Minister,
U.P in Hindustan Shiksha Shikhar Samman 2020-
Excellence in Qualified Faculty and Excellence in
Residential Facilities & programmes offered”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser has made the claim on
the basis of the award received by their University.
However, the advertiser did not provide a copy of the
award certificate, reference of the award received
such as the source, the basis of the award such as the
details of the process as to how the selection for the
award was done, details of the criteria for granting
the award, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
similar universities that were part of the survey, the
outcome of the survey, and the details of the
awarding body. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims, “TMU
awarded by Hon'ble Deputy Chief Minister, U.P in
Hindustan Shiksha Shikhar Samman 2020-
Excellence in Qualified Faculty and Excellence in
Residential Facilities & programmes offered”, was
not substantiated with supporting ranking data.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code,
and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings
in Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
48. @ 2011-C.1910 Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan
Chit Fund Pvt Ltd
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Chennai Edition,
Main Issue (Tamil) (19.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The Most Trusted Chit Fund Company”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting their chit
fund services inviting public to subscribe to their chit
Recommendations – December 2020
fund. Upon careful consideration of the complaint
and in the absence of response from the advertiser,
the CCC concluded that the claim, “The Most
Trusted Chit Fund Company”, was not substantiated
with market survey data, or with verifiable
comparative data of advertiser’s company versus
other similar chit fund companies, to prove that they
are more trusted than all the rest, nor through a third-
party validation. The source for the claim was not
indicated in the advertisement. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
grave disappointment in the minds of consumers. The
print advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4,
and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
49. @ 2011-C.1913 Shri Siddhi Vinayak
Group of Institutions (SSVGI)
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan(*), Bareilly Edition, Main
Issue, (Hindi) (23.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Best Quality Education Awards
2. Best Private Polytechnic in Uttar Pradesh
3. Best Educationist in Uttar Pradesh
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser has made the claims on
the basis of the awards received by their institute.
However, the advertiser did not support these claims
with copy of the award certificates, reference of the
awards received as the source, the basis of the
awards or the survey methodologies followed to
obtain this information such as the details of the
process as to how the selection for the awards was
done, details of the criteria for granting the awards,
parameters considered, questionnaires used, names of
other institutes that were part of the survey, the
outcome of the survey, and the details about the
awarding bodies. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims, “Best
Quality Education Awards”, “Best Private
Polytechnic in Uttar Pradesh,” and “Best Educationist
in Uttar Pradesh”, were not substantiated with
supporting ranking data. The source for the claims
was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
50. @ 2011-C.1914 Sarvajna Justice
ShivrajPatil Residential PU college of Science
MEDIUM: Vijay Karnataka(*), Gulbarg Edition,
Main Issue, (Kannada),(20.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 in JEE and NEET also”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
JEE and NEET exams. Upon careful consideration of
the complaint and in the absence of response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “No.1
in JEE and NEET”, was not substantiated with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s college
versus other similar colleges, to prove that they are in
leadership position (No.1) than all the rest for
providing coaching for JEE and NEET courses, nor
through a third-party validation. The source for the
claim was not indicated in the advertisement. The
claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely to
lead to grave disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Recommendations – December 2020
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4, and I.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
51. @ 2011-C.1915 Mahavir Shikshan
Sanstha-Tanishq School of Nursing
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat , Nagpur Edition, Main
Issue, (Marathi) (20.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Job Placement-Tanishq School of Nursing”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
GNM and R.A.N.M courses. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “100% Job Placement-Tanishq School
of Nursing” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their Institute in relevant industries on completion of
their courses, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines for
Disclaimers made in supporting, limiting or
explaining claims made in advertisements. This
complaint was UPHELD.
52. @ 2011-C.1916 Sai Royale College of
Tourism & Hotel Management (Meerut)
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*) Meerut Edition,
Main Issue, (Hindi) (25.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Job Guarantee”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
Diploma in Tourism & Hotel Management, Degree
Programme in Hotel Administration , Diploma in
Airline Management, BBA,BCA, Polytechnic and
Advance Retail Management. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “Job Guarantee” was not substantiated
with authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
placed through their Institute in Travel, Hotel, and
Airline industry on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
made in supporting, limiting or explaining claims
made in advertisements, as well as Chapters I.1, I.4
Recommendations – December 2020
and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
53. @ 2011-C.1917 Techno India Group-TIG
School of Management
MEDIUM: Times of India(*) Kolkata Edition, Main
Issue, (English)(29.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that
no response was received from the advertiser prior to
the prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s college/institute is
claiming that it provides placement assistance to their
students. Upon careful consideration of the complaint
and in the absence of any response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that while the
advertiser may be providing placement assistance to
their students for getting jobs in relevant industries,
the use of 100% numerical is not relevant for “100%
Placement Assistance” claim. There cannot be a
percentage assigned to any assistance claim such as
40% or 80% assistance. The use of “100%” as a
descriptor in the claim is misleading by implication
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of students. The print advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
54. @ 2011-C.1918 Stani Memorial P.G.
College (SMPGC)
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Jaipur Edition, Main
Issue, (English) (26.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Placement Assistance
2. Ranked 1 among Best Colleges of Rajasthan by
India Today 2020
Objection:
Additionally, please also note that the above
claim“100% Placement Assistance”, was challenged
under complaint reference no. 1909-C.1860 is in
continued violation.
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s college is claiming that
it provides placement assistance to their students, and
is making a ranking claim based on the survey done
by India Today in 2020. Upon careful consideration
of the complaint and in the absence of any response
from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that while
the advertiser may be providing placement assistance
to their students for getting jobs in relevant industry,
the use of 100% numerical is not relevant for “100%
Placement Assistance” claim. There cannot be a
percentage assigned to any assistance claim such as
40% or 80% assistance. The use of “100%” as a
descriptor in the claim is misleading by implication.
Claim, “Ranked 1 among Best Colleges of Rajasthan
by India Today 2020” was not substantiated with a
copy of the award certificate, reference of the award
received such as the source, the basis of the awards or
the survey methodology followed to obtain this
information such as the details of the process as to
how the selection for the award was done, details of
the criteria for granting the award, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
colleges that were part of the survey, and the
outcome of the survey, and the details about the
awarding body. The source for the claim was not
indicated in the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4, and
I.5 of the ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines for
Usage of Awards/Rankings in Advertisements, ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
Recommendations – December 2020
and Programs. This complaint was UPHELD.
55. @ 2011-C.1919 Sri Ramakrishna College
of Engineering
MEDIUM: Dinamalar, Trichy Edition, Main Issue,
(Tamil) (16.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
1st place at Perambalur, Ariyalur, Cuddalore District
level (in the Ranking List Published for Engineering
Colleges By Anna University)
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser has made the claim on
the basis of the ranking given by Anna University.
However, the advertiser did not provide a copy of the
award certificate, reference of the award received
such as the source, the basis of the award such as the
details of the process as to how the selection for the
award was done, details of the criteria for granting
the award, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
similar colleges that were part of the survey, the
outcome of the survey, and the details of the
awarding body. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “1st
place at Perambalur, Ariyalur, Cuddalore District
level (in the Ranking List Published for Engineering
Colleges By Anna University)”, was not
substantiated with supporting ranking data.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code,
and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings
in Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
56. @ 2011-C.1920 Online Marketing
Institute and Training (O.M.I.T)
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://drivespark.com)
(English) (23.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Guaranteed”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://drivespark.com) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for Digital
marketing course. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“100% Placement Guaranteed” was not substantiated
with authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
placed through their Institute in relevant industries on
completion of their courses, their appointment letters,
list of students who were not placed and the reason
for their non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code, and
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was UPHELD.
57. @ 2011-C.1924 Mohali Nursing College
Recommendations – December 2020
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://freejobalert.com)
(English) (23.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Become a Registered Nurse, On Job Training,
Placement Assurance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://freejobalert.com) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for B.Sc. Nursing
course. Upon careful consideration of the complaint
and in the absence of any response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Become a Registered Nurse, On Job Training,
Placement Assurance” was not substantiated with
authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
placed through their Institute in Healthcare industry,
relevant industries on completion of their nursing
courses, their appointment letters, list of students who
were not placed and the reason for their non-
placement, nor any independent audit or verification
certificate. Furthermore, the advertisement did not
have any disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no
guarantee of future job prospects” nor did it have a
declaration of the total number of students passing
out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code and ASCI
Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was UPHELD.
58. @ 2011-C.1927 Primus Techsystems Pvt
Ltd -Primus Sap Academy
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://indianexpress.com) (English) (23.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Get 100% Placement in Top MNC”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://indianexpress.com) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for SAP FI, MM,
PP, SD, and ABAP courses. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “Get 100% Placement in Top MNC”
was not substantiated with authentic supporting data
such as batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their Institute in
Top MNC on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code and ASCI
Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was UPHELD.
59. @ 2011-C.1928 Poornima University
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://hsslive.in),
Recommendations – December 2020
(English) (18.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Placement Assistance
2. Awarded as Top Private University of Rajasthan
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
and observed that the advertiser’s university is
claiming that it provides placement assistance to their
students, and has made the claim on the basis of the
award received by them. Upon careful consideration
of the complaint and in the absence of any response
from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that while
the advertiser may be providing placement assistance
to their students for getting jobs in relevant
industries, the use of 100% numerical is not relevant
for “100% Placement Assistance” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistance
claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication.
Claim, “Awarded as Top Private University of
Rajasthan” was not substantiated with a copy of the
award certificate, reference of the award received
such as the source, the basis of the award or the
survey methodology followed to obtain this
information such as the details of the process as to
how the selection for the award was done, details of
the criteria for granting the award, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
universities that were part of the survey, the outcome
of the survey, and the details about the awarding
body. The source for the claim was not indicated in
the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers including students. The digital
display advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.2,
I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines
for Usage of Awards/ Rankings in Advertisements,
and ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs. This complaint was
UPHELD.
60. @ 2011-C.1929 Sri Balaji Educational
Trust-Shri Rajiv Gandhi IIT & NEET Academy
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://deccanchronicle.com) (English) (29.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“We assure 100% success by crash course in 30 days
with India’s top…”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://deccanchronicle.com) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for JEE and NEET
examinations. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“We assure 100% success by crash course in 30 days
with India’s top…” was not substantiated with
detailed list of students who have been successful in
JEE and NEET examinations after completion of the
crash course in 30 days through the advertiser’s
coaching institute, their contact details for
independent verification by ASCI, and copy of their
mark sheets/results. The CCC noted that the
advertiser failed to establish the claim through an
independent third party validation. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The digital display
advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5
of the ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs. This complaint was UPHELD.
61. @ 2011-C.1931 ParulArogyaSevaMandal
Trust Parul University
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://hirelateral.com),
Recommendations – December 2020
(English) (22.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Ranked No1 in Placements”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://hirelateral.com) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for B.Tech and
courses in 200+ programs. However, the advertiser
did not support the said claim with a copy of the
award certificate, reference of the award
received such as the source, the basis of the award or
the survey methodology followed to obtain this
information such as the details of the process as to
how the selection for the award was done, details of
the criteria for granting the award, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
universities that were part of the survey, the outcome
of the survey, and the details about the awarding
body. Upon careful consideration of the complaint,
and in the absence of response from the advertiser,
the CCC concluded that the claim, “Ranked No1 in
Placements”, was not substantiated with supporting
ranking data. The source for the claim was not
indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The digital display
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
62. @ 2011-C.1940 Neram Classes
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://entrancezone.com) (English) (27.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“# 1 NATA& JEE Paper 2 Classes”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://entrancezone.com) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for NATA & JEE
examinations. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “#
1 NATA& JEE Paper 2 Classes” was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s classes versus other similar coaching
classes to prove that they are in leadership position
(No.1) for NATA & JEE Paper 2 Classes. The CCC
noted that the advertiser failed to establish the claim
through an independent third party validation. The
source for the claim was not indicated in the
advertisement. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers including
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI
Code and ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs. This
complaint was UPHELD.
63. @ 2011-C.1945 Quantum University
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://indiastudychannel.com)(*) (English)
(21.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“More than 150 Recruiters,100% Placement”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
Recommendations – December 2020
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://indiastudychannel.com) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for Hotel
Management course. Upon careful consideration of
the complaint and in the absence of any response
from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the
claim, “More than 150 Recruiters,100% Placement”
was not substantiated with authentic supporting data
such as batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their University in
Hotel industry on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code and ASCI
Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was UPHELD.
64. @ 2011-C.2041 Mindreflex Technologies
Private Limited-21k School
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://news18.com)
(English) (29.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India’s 1st Online School”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but replied
requesting for an extension of time to submit their
detailed response. The deadlines stipulated by
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) procedure
exist keeping in mind the immediate and widespread
impact that advertisements have on the public.
Consequently, any action which is needed to be taken
with respect to the same is required to be prompt and
urgent. It is for this purpose that the deadlines, as
stipulated, are set for advertisers/broadcasters etc.
and the CCC itself makes it a priority to deal with
every complaint before it as expeditiously as
possible. However, as a special gesture, the
advertiser was granted an extension of additional two
business days to respond.
Advertiser in their response stated that “21K School
is an online school for home schooling kids. They are
a 100% online school with no physical campus. Their
students attend classes from over 25 cities and learn
their academic program from full-time teachers, on
their payroll from 8 different cities. With regards to
their claim of India’s first online school, the company
was registered on 03 March 2020 and the domain of
21Kschool.com was registered on 28th April 2020.
They publicly announced the launch of 21K School
as an Online School on 05th June 2020. As on that
date, there were no Online Schools in India. There
are many schools that offer online education but
none that is an Online School like 21K School.”
In support of their response, the advertiser referred to
two news article links –
(http://www.businessworld.in/article/India-s-first-
accredited-Online-School-K8-launched/20-08-2020-
311050/) and
(https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/indias-
first-accredited-online-school-k8-launched/1919566)
of Business magazine – Business World and Outlook
magazine.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://news18.com) and considered the advertiser’s
response. The CCC did not consider the news
coverage submitted by the advertiser to be acceptable
as relevant and credible evidence for the comparative
claim made in the advertisement. The CCC noted that
the links shared by the advertiser talked about the
launch of `K8 School’ being India's first accredited
full-fledged online school in August 2020. The CCC
also noted the advertiser’s response which had only
assertions about the claim. Advertiser asserted that
their company was registered on 3rd March 2020,
domain of 21Kschool.com was registered on 28th
April 2020, and the public announcement about the
launch of 21K School as an Online School was made
on 5th June 2020. As per the advertiser on that date,
there were no Online Schools in India.
The CCC observed that the advertiser did not provide
Recommendations – December 2020
evidence of their school being registered in March
2020. Advertiser also did not submit registration
certificate, evidence of announcement made, detailed
list of students and evidence to support their
enrolment, contact details of students for verification.
Also, the claim being comparative in nature, there
was no evidence of comparison provided in the form
of a market survey data or verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s school versus other online
schools in India to prove that their school is the first
to provide online home schooling. The claim was
also not backed by an independent third party
validation.
In the absence of claim support data, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “India’s 1st Online School”
was not substantiated. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
65. @ 2011-C.2042 Aditya Group of
Institutions-Aditya College of Design Studies
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://consumercomplaints.in) (English)
(27.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Fashion Designing Degree @ ACDS-
100%Placement”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://consumercomplaints.in) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for Fashion
Designing Degree courses. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “Fashion Designing Degree @ ACDS-
100%Placement” was not substantiated with
authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
placed through their Institute in Fashion industry on
completion of their courses, their appointment letters,
list of students who were not placed and the reason
for their non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code and ASCI
Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was UPHELD.
66. @ 2011-C.2044 Ajay Kadam Associates
Pvt. Ltd-Akses-RCBD Software Training
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://mytopbusinessideas.com) (English)
(29.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India's No.1 RCC Dsgn Software”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://mytopbusinessideas.com) and observed that
the advertiser is providing coaching for designing
Software course. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“India's No.1 RCC Dsgn Software” was not
Recommendations – December 2020
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s RCC design software versus other
similar RCC design softwares in India to prove that
their software is in the leadership position (No. 1) for
RCC design, or through an independent third party
validation. The source for the claim was not indicated
in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
67. @ 2011-C.2045 Bennett University(*)
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://mensxp.com)
(English) (30.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Record In All Bathes by Top
Industry Recruiters”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://mensxp.com) and observed that the advertiser
is providing coaching for Undergraduate, post
graduate and Ph.D course. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “100% Placement Record In All
Bathes by Top Industry Recruiters” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their university in
relevant industries on completion of their courses,
their appointment letters, list of students who were
not placed and the reason for their non-placement,
nor any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code and ASCI
Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was UPHELD.
68. @ 2011-C.2048 Crystal Analytix
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://tutorialspoint.com) (English) (26.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://tutorialspoint.com) and observed that the
advertiser is providing training for Data Science
course. Upon careful consideration of the complaint
and in the absence of any response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “100%
Placement” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their Institute in relevant industries on completion of
their courses, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
Recommendations – December 2020
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code and ASCI
Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was UPHELD.
69. @ 2011-C.2050 EduPristine
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://1001fonts.com)
(English) (14.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that
no response was received from the advertiser prior to
the prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://1001fonts.com) and observed that the
advertiser is claiming to provide placement
assistance to their students. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that while the advertiser may be providing placement
assistance to their students for getting jobs in relevant
industries, the use of 100% numerical is not relevant
for “100% Placement Assistance” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistance
claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs as well as Chapters I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
70. @ 2011-C.2051 Eeci GATE - GATE
Coaching
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://gosugamers.net)
(English) (12.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Min.700 GATE Score Guarantee”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the the digital display
advertisement (http://gosugamers.net) and observed
that the advertiser is providing coaching for GATE,
PUS and IES exams. Upon careful consideration of
the complaint, and in the absence of any response
from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the
claim, “Min.700 GATE Score Guarantee” was not
substantiated with detailed list of all their students,
list of those students who scored a min 700 in their
GATE exams, their contact details for independent
verification by ASCI, and copy of their scorecards,
nor the claim was backed by a third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
71. @ 2011-C.2053 Excel Academy
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://english-test.net)
(English) (12.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. No.1 IELTS online class Mumbai
2. Join the Best Academy
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
Recommendations – December 2020
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://english-test.net) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for IELTS course.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “No.1 IELTS online
class Mumbai” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s online classes
versus other similar online classes in Mumbai, to
prove that their classes is in leadership position
(No.1) for IELTS coaching, or through an
independent third party validation. The source for the
claim was not indicated in the advertisement.
Claim, “Join the Best Academy” was not
substantiated with market survey data and with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
academy versus other similar academies to prove that
they are better than all the rest for IELTS coaching,
or through an independent third party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
72. @ 2011-C.2054 Financial Planning
Academy
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://jobs.mitula.in)
(English) (03.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that
no response was received from the advertiser prior to
the prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://jobs.mitula.in) and observed that the
advertiser’s academy is claiming that it provides
placement assistance to their students. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that while the advertiser may be providing placement
assistance to their students for getting jobs in relevant
industries, the use of 100% numerical is not relevant
for “100% Placement Assistance” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistance
claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs as well as Chapters I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
73. @ 2011-C.2055 Greens Technology
Software Training & Placements
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://javatpoint.com)
(English) (09.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"100% Job"
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://javatpoint.com) and observed that the
advertiser is providing training for Python, Oracle,
Selenium, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Data
Warehouse, Java, Sharepoint, Software Testing,
Informatica, Blockchain, Dot Net, Oracle DBA,
Hadoop, SAS, R Language, Tableau, Power BI,
Recommendations – December 2020
Xamarin, Node.js, ReactJS, UNIX SHELL Scripting,
C and C++, courses. Upon careful consideration of
the complaint and in the absence of any response
from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the
claim, “100% Job” was not substantiated with
authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
placed through their Institute in relevant industries on
completion of their courses, their appointment letters,
list of students who were not placed and the reason
for their non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code and ASCI
Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was UPHELD.
74. @ 2011-C.2056 Gurukul Agri
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://studyrankers.com)
(English) (27.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India’s Largest AFO Community”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://studyrankers.com) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for AFO exams.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “India’s Largest AFO
Community” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s Agriculture
coaching centre versus other similar coaching centres
in India, to prove that the their Agriculture coaching
centre is larger than all the rest, or through an
independent third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
75. @ 2011-C.2057 Hitech Film and
Broadcast Academy
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://indiaeducation.net) (English) (30.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that
no response was received from the advertiser prior to
the prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://indiaeducation.net) and observed that the
advertiser’s academy is claiming that it provides
placement assistance to their students. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that while the advertiser may be providing placement
assistance to their students for getting jobs in relevant
industries, the use of 100% numerical is not relevant
for “100% Placement Assistance” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistance
claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs as well as Chapters I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Recommendations – December 2020
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
76. @ 2011-C.2058 Image Infotainment Ltd-
ICAT Design & Media College
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://recruitment.guru)
(English) (29.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"India’s 1st college to introduce Bachelors Degree in
Gaming"
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://recruitment.guru) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for Bachelor’s
Degree in Gaming. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“India’s 1st college to introduce Bachelor’s Degree in
Gaming”, was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s college versus
other similar colleges in India, to prove that their
college is the first to introduce Bachelor’s Degree in
Gaming, nor through an independent third party
validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
77. @ 2011-C.2060 IIPC - Digital Marketing
Course
MEDIUM: Digital Video (http://youtube.com)
(English) (26.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India’s No.1 practical training institute (Voice over
Claim)”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital video advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
IIPC exams. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the voice over
claim, “India’s No.1 practical training institute” was
not substantiated with verifiable comparative data of
the advertiser’s training institute versus other similar
training institutes in India, to prove that they are in
leadership position (No.1), nor through an
independent third party validation. The source for the
claim was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital video advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
78. @ 2011-C.2063 Indian Institute for
Aeronautical Engineering & Information
Technology
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://enggwave.com)
(English) (16.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
Recommendations – December 2020
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that
no response was received from the advertiser prior to
the prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://enggwave.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is claiming that it provides
placement assistance to their students. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that while the advertiser may be providing placement
assistance to their students for getting jobs in relevant
industries, the use of 100% numerical is not relevant
for “100% Placement Assistance” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistance
claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs as well as Chapters I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
79. @ 2011-C.2064 Indus University
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://electronicshub.org) (English) (27.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement in Computer Related Fields”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://electronicshub.org) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for BCA and MCA
courses. Upon careful consideration of the complaint
and in the absence of any response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “100%
Placement in Computer Related Fields” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their University in
Computer Science and Computing related fields on
completion of their courses, their appointment letters,
list of students who were not placed and the reason
for their non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code and ASCI
Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was UPHELD.
80. @ 2011-C.2067 Institute of Design &
Technology (IDT)d
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://sarkariresult.com)
(English) (14.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that
no response was received from the advertiser prior to
the prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://sarkariresult.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is claiming that it provides
placement assistance to their students. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that while the advertiser may be providing placement
assistance to their students for getting jobs in relevant
industries, the use of 100% numerical is not relevant
for “100% Placement Assistance” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistance
Recommendations – December 2020
claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs as well as Chapters I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
81. @ 2011-C.2068 Jain (Deemed-to-be
University)
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://Indiastudychannel.com) (English)
(23.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that
no response was received from the advertiser prior to
the prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://Indiastudychannel.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s university is claiming that it provides
placement assistance to their students. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that while the advertiser may be providing placement
assistance to their students for getting jobs in relevant
industries, the use of 100% numerical is not relevant
for “100% Placement Assistance” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistance
claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs as well as Chapters I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
82. @ 2011-C.2069 Jaypee University of
Information Technology (JUIT)
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://gizbot.com)
(English) (28.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Best Private University in Himachal Pradesh
2. JUIT Department of Biotechnology &
Bioinformatics ranked no. 1 among pvt univ. in India
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://gizbot.com) and observed that the advertiser is
providing coaching for B.Tech, Bio and Bio-Tech
courses. Upon careful consideration of the complaint,
and in the absence of any response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “Best
Private University in Himachal Pradesh” was not
substantiated with market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of advertiser’s university
versus other similar universities in Himachal Pradesh
to prove that their university is a better private
university than all the rest, nor through an
independent third party validation.
Claim, “JUIT Department of Biotechnology &
Bioinformatics ranked no. 1 among pvt univ. in
India” was not substantiated with a copy of the award
certificate, reference of the award received such as
the source, the basis of the award or the survey
methodology followed to obtain this information
such as the details of the process as to how the
selection for the award was done, details of the
criteria for granting the award, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
universities that were part of the survey, the outcome
of the survey, and the details about the awarding
body. The source for the claim was not indicated in
the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers including students. The digital
display advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.2,
I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code, ASCI Guidelines for
Usage of Awards/Rankings in Advertisements, and
Recommendations – December 2020
ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs. This complaint was
UPHELD.
83. @ 2011-C.2070 Learnbay Technologies-
Learnbay
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://codejava.net)
(English) (07.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement record”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://codejava.net) and observed that the advertiser
is providing coaching for Python, C/C++, Data
structures and algorithms and Linux System
programming. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“100% Placement record” was not substantiated with
authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
placed through their Institute in relevant industries on
completion of their courses, their appointment letters,
list of students who were not placed and the reason
for their non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code and ASCI
Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was UPHELD.
84. @ 2011-C.2072 Lingayas Vidyapeeth
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://lyricsmint.com)
(English) (06.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that
no response was received from the advertiser prior to
the prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://lyricsmint.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is claiming that it provides
placement assistance to their students. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that while the advertiser may be providing placement
assistance to their students for getting jobs in relevant
industries, the use of 100% numerical is not relevant
for “100% Placement Assistance” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistance
claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs as well as Chapters I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
85. @ 2011-C.2073 Lloyd Law College
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://rediff.com)
(English) (29.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Ranked #1 in pvt. colleges offering highest salary
placement, India Today Survey 2019-20”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
Recommendations – December 2020
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://rediff.com) and observed that the advertiser is
providing coaching for BA.LL.B and LL.B courses.
The claim has been made based on the ranking given
to their college by India Today Survey 2019-20.
However, the advertiser did not support this claim
with a copy of the award certificate, reference of the
award received such as the source, the basis of the
award or the survey methodology followed to obtain
this information such as the details of the process as
to how the selection for the award was done, details
of the criteria for granting the award, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
colleges that were part of the survey, the outcome of
the survey, and the details about the awarding body.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Ranked #1 in pvt. colleges
offering highest salary placement, India Today
Survey 2019-20” was not substantiated with
supporting ranking data. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers including
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code, ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements, and ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs. This complaint was UPHELD.
86. @ 2011-C.2095 Digital Marketing
Training Institute (DMTI)
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://ssgcp.com)
(English) (27.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Practical Class Job Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that
no response was received from the advertiser prior to
the prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://ssgcp.com) and observed that the advertiser’s
institute is claiming that it provides Practical Class
job assistance to their students. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that while the advertiser may be providing job
assistance to their students for getting jobs in relevant
industries, the use of 100% numerical is not relevant
for “100% Practical Class Job Assistance” claim.
There cannot be a percentage assigned to any
assistance claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The
use of “100%” as a descriptor in the claim is
misleading by implication and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of students.
The digital display advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.4 and I.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
87. @ 2011-C.2096 Exampur
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://sarkariresultsearch.com) (English)
(07.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India No.1 Online Coaching for UP Lekhpal
examination”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
and observed that the advertiser is providing
Recommendations – December 2020
coaching for UP Lekhpal examination. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint, and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “India No.1 Online Coaching for UP
Lekhpal examination” was not substantiated with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s online
coaching centre versus other online coaching centres
in India to prove that they are in leadership position
(No.1) for providing online coaching for UP Lekhpal
examination, nor the claim was backed by an
independent third party validation. The source for the
claim was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
88. @ 2011-C.2097 Game Institute
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://ufreegames.com)
(English) (11.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Placement Record
2. Join India’s award winning institute
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://ufreegames.com) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for Gaming,
Animation and Visual FX course. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “100% Placement Record” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their Institute in
relevant industries on completion of their courses,
their appointment letters, list of students who were
not placed and the reason for their non-placement,
nor any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
Claim, “Join India’s award winning institute” was not
substantiated with a copy of the award certificate,
reference of the award received such as the source,
the basis of the award or the survey methodology
followed to obtain this information such as the details
of the process as to how the selection for the award
was done, details of the criteria for granting the
award, parameters considered, questionnaires used,
names of other institutes that were part of the survey,
the outcome of the survey, and the details about the
awarding body. The source for the claim was not
indicated in the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers including students. The digital
display advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.2,
I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code, ASCI Guidelines for
Usage of Awards/Rankings in Advertisements, and
ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs. This complaint was
UPHELD.
89. @ 2011-C.2100 Suresh GyanVihar
University
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://india.com)
(English) (14.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“SGVU-No.1 Private University of Rajasthan with
NAAC “A” grade accreditation”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
Recommendations – December 2020
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://india.com). Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“SGVU-No.1 Private University of Rajasthan with
NAAC “A” grade accreditation” was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s university versus other private
universities in Rajasthan, to prove that their
university is in the leadership position (No.1) than all
the rest for having NAAC “A” grade accreditation,
nor through an independent third party validation.
The source for the claim was not indicated in the
advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
90. @ 2011-C.2101 Henry Harvin Education
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://tutorialspoint.com) (English) (12.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“CSSE- No.1 Certification India”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://tutorialspoint.com) and observed that the
advertiser is offering coaching for Six Sigma Green
Belt certification course. Upon careful consideration
of the complaint, and in the absence of any response
from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the
claim, “CSSE- No.1 Certification India”, was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s institute versus other similar institutes in
India to prove that the certification provided by their
institute (CSSE) is in the leadership position (No. 1),
nor through an independent third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs as well as Chapters I.1 and I.4 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
91. @ 2011-C.2102 IIFA Multimedia
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://caknowledge.in)
(English) (11.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India’s No.1 design college”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://caknowledge.in) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for B. Sc, M. Sc,
MBA and master diploma courses. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint, and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “India’s No.1 design college” was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s college versus other similar design
colleges in India, to prove that they are in leadership
position (No. 1), nor through an independent third
party validation. The source for the claim was not
indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
92. @ 2011-C.2103 Mailam Engineering
College
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://sarkarinaukridaily.in) (English) (02.10.2020)
Recommendations – December 2020
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India Today Ranking 2020 - Ranked 1 in
Villupuram, Tiruvannamalai and Cuddalore district”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://sarkarinaukridaily.in) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for various
engineering courses. Advertiser has made the claim
on the basis of the ranking granted to them by India
Today in 2020. However, the advertiser did not
support this claim with a copy of the award
certificate, reference of the award received such as
the source, the basis of the award or the survey
methodology followed to obtain this information
such as the details of the process as to how the
selection for the award was done, details of the
criteria for granting the award, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
colleges that were part of the survey, the outcome of
the survey, and the details about the awarding body.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “India Today Ranking 2020
- Ranked 1 in Villupuram, Tiruvannamalai and
Cuddalore district”, was not substantiated with
supporting ranking data. The source for the claim
was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The digital display
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
93. @ 2011-C.2106 Sunshine Techno System
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://gradesaver.com)
(English) (12.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Job Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that
no response was received from the advertiser prior to
the prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://gradesaver.com) and observed that the
advertiser is claiming that it provides Job Assistance
to their students. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that while the
advertiser may be providing job assistance to their
students for getting jobs in relevant industries, the use
of 100% numerical is not relevant for “100% Job
Assistance” claim. There cannot be a percentage
assigned to any assistance claim such as 40% or 80%
assistance. The use of “100%” as a descriptor in the
claim is misleading by implication and is likely to
lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
94. @ 2011-C.2108 Ankalan Web Solutions
Pvt Ltd-Top Rankers
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://merriam-
webster.com) (English) (13.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India’s No.1 Online Coaching marketplace”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
Recommendations – December 2020
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://merriam-webster.com). Upon careful
consideration of the complaint, and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “India’s No.1 Online Coaching
marketplace” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s online coaching
centre versus other online coaching centres in India,
to prove that their online coaching marketplace is in
the leadership position (No.1), nor through an
independent third party validation. The source for the
claim was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
95. @ 2011-C.2110 Vajirao& Reddy Institute
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://esakal.com)
(English) (30.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“IAS Achievers 1st Choice”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://esakal.com). Upon careful consideration of
the complaint, and in the absence of any response
from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the
claim, “IAS Achievers 1st Choice” was not
substantiated with verifiable survey data done
amongst students in general (and not from the
advertiser’s institute alone), to prove that their
institute was the first choice among all other similar
institutes for IAS achievers. The claim was not
backed by an independent third party validation. The
claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely to
lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
FSSAI Complaints:
96. @ 2011-C.1864 Bambino Agro Industries
Ltd – Bambino (Haldi Doodh Ashwagandha Mix)
MEDIUM: Bhakti TV (Telugu) (01.10.2020) (15
Secs) (6:25:22)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Boost Immunity Power
2. Reduce High Blood Pressure
Objection:
Ad shows visual of virus implying that consumption
of the product in the current pandemic scenario
protects you from covid
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the TVC (in Telugu) and observed
that the advertiser is promoting Turmeric milk -
`Haldi Doodh Ashwagandha Mix’. However, the
advertiser did not provide product specific
information such as composition / licence / pack
artwork or samples, scientific rationale for the
product claims. The CCC also noted that the
advertiser did not provide any evidence of presence
of ingredients responsible for the claimed benefits.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims,
Recommendations – December 2020
“Boost Immunity Power and “Reduce High Blood
Pressure” were not substantiated with clinical
evidence of product efficacy.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to grave disappointment in the minds of
consumers. TVC shows a visual of virus which is
misleading as it implies that consumption of the said
milk in the current pandemic scenario protects from
COVID. The TVC contravened Chapters I.1, I.4, and
I.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
97. @ 2011-C.1867 Rebel Foods Pvt Ltd
(Oven Story Pizza)
MEDIUM: Zing (English) (05.09.2020) (10 Secs)
(7:34:16)
ADVERTISING AGENCY: Publicis Comms Pvt.
Ltd(*)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Safest Pizza in Town”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail and
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “they would like to shed some
light towards the process that is strictly adhered to
during the preparation of these pizzas. The pizza at
its making is heated at a temperature of 230 degree
Celsius at which no microorganism, bacteria or virus
could survive. The pizza is never allowed to come
into a direct physical contact during the preparation
process. Pizzas are ensured to be double packed.
This addresses the issue of multiple hand contact
with the food/pizza. Their company throughout all
its brands, follows the WHO guidelines for the
COVID-19 pandemic of frequent hand-washing,
sanitization, mask-wearing and cleaning guidelines
multiple times daily. These guidelines are followed by
all staff members, including their delivery riders.
The customer is provided with an option of
contactless delivery. If such an option is selected by
the customer, the delivery personnel ensures that the
food is delivered at the doorstep without coming in
contact with the customer at all.”
Advertiser provided copy of the TVCs that are being
currently aired by them and a copy of the storyboard.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the TVC and considered the advertiser’s response.
The CCC noted that the advertiser’s response has
only assertions regarding their claim. The advertiser
is promoting their food product – Oven Story pizza
claiming it to be the safest pizza in town. The CCC
did not agree with the advertiser’s assertions
provided as claim substantiation. Advertiser did not
provide any support data or evidence of comparison
with other advertisers of Pizza brands to prove that
their Pizza is the safest Pizza in town. The CCC also
noted that the basis of comparison was not stated in
the advertisement.
In the absence of claim support data, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Safest Pizza in Town”,
was not substantiated with verifiable comparative
data or market survey data. The claim is misleading
by omission and exaggeration and is likely to lead to
grave or widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The TVC contravened Chapters I.1, I.4,
and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
The CCC noted that the advertiser has agreed to
modify their advertisement as per CCC
recommendations.
98. @ 2011-C.1868 The Soumi's Can Product
- Soumis Can Pure Pickles
MEDIUM: Calcutta News (Bengali) (27.08.2020)
(10 Secs) (12:26:03)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Soumis Can Pure Pickles”
(Does the product fulfil the FSSAI criteria to claim
Pure)
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the TVC (in Bengali) and observed
that the advertiser is promoting a Food product –
“Soumis Can Pure Pickles”, claiming that it is pure
pickle. However, the advertiser did not submit any
product specific details such as composition / licence
Recommendations – December 2020
/ pack artwork or samples, and any evidence of
presence of ingredients in the pickle. There was no
test reports or clinical data submitted for the product
to be pure. Advertiser also did not provide evidence
for the claim being in compliance with FSSAI
Guidelines.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of comments from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Soumis Can Pure
Pickles”, was not substantiated. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
grave and widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The TVC contravened Chapters I.1, I.4,
I.5, and III.4 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
99. @ 2011-C.1869 Dakshina Kannada Co –
Operative Milk Producers Union Ltd – Nandini
Kashaya Milk
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Mangalore Edition,
Main Issue (English) (21.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“To Increase Immunity Against COVID-19, Heat &
Drink Nandini Decoction”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting a milk
product - `Nandini Kashaya Milk’ claiming that the
product increases Immunity Against COVID-19.
However, the advertiser did not provide any product
specific information such as copy of product label,
product approval license and they also did not
provide any scientific rationale or clinical evidence of
product efficacy, to prove the product’s ability in
increasing Immunity Against COVID-19.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “To Increase
Immunity Against COVID-19, Heat & Drink Nandini
Decoction”, was not substantiated. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
grave and widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
100. @ 2011-C.1880 PhoolMarka Ghee
(MunnalalDwarkadas)
MEDIUM: Rajasthan Patrika(*), Kolkata Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (15.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The Best Quality Ghee”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting their Ghee
product. Upon careful consideration of the complaint
and in the absence of response from the advertiser,
the CCC concluded that the claim, “The Best Quality
Ghee”, was not substantiated with market survey
data, or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s product versus other similar Ghee
products to prove that the quality of their Ghee is
better than all the rest, or through a third-party
validation. The claim is misleading by exaggeration
and is likely to lead to grave disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
101. @ 2011-C.1882 Vsure Farm Fresh Cow
Milk
MEDIUM: EP Amar Ujala(*), Aligarh Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (21.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The purest & tastiest milk you can find for your
Recommendations – December 2020
family”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting cow milk –
`Vsure’. the advertiser did not provide any product
specific information such as copy of product label,
product composition details, product approval
license, and FSSAI approval for the claim made.
They also did not provide test reports or clinical data
to prove the milk to be purest and tastiest.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim of “The purest &
tastiest milk you can find for your family” was not
substantiated. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to grave and
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
102. @ 2011-C.1883 Sresta Natural Bio-
Products (24 Mantra Organic Range of Products)
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Chandigarh Edition,
Main Issue (English) (29.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“More: Antioxidants, Minerals and Fiber Content”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail and
submitted their written reply.
Advertiser in their reply acknowledged receipt of
ASCI’s mail and stated that “they would get back on
the same at the earliest.” However the advertiser did
not provide their response to the complaint in time
for the Consumer Complaints Council (CCC)
meeting.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
considered the advertiser’s reply. The advertiser is
promoting their range of food items – Organic
Peanut, Organic Sesame Bar, Organic Jaggery
powder, Organic Sugar, claiming to have `More:
Antioxidants | Minerals | Fiber content’. However,
the CCC observed that the advertiser did not provide
any specific information for the products such as
copy of Product approval license, product label,
Product composition details, nor any evidence of
presence of ingredients in the product. The advertiser
also did not provide any data to prove that the
advertised product has more antioxidants, minerals,
and fiber content. The advertiser has not specified
whether the claim has been made in comparison to
other similar organic products. The CCC was of the
view that the claim would mislead consumers that in
addition to the ingredients present, the content of
antioxidants, minerals, and fiber is more in the
products.
In the absence of claim support data, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “More: Antioxidants |
Minerals | Fiber content” was not substantiated. The
claim is misleading by exaggeration and implication
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
103. @ 2011-C.1886 Dhameja Home
Industries – (Dhameja Gold Masale)
MEDIUM: EP NaiDuniya(*), Indore Edition, Main
Issue (Hindi) (29.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“First Choice of Ideal Housewives”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
Recommendations – December 2020
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting their range
of masala products . Upon careful consideration of
the complaint and in the absence of response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “First
Choice of Ideal Housewives”, was not substantiated
with market survey data, or with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s product versus
other similar masale products, to prove that their
product is the first choice among all ideal
housewives, or through a third-party validation. The
claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely to
lead to grave disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
104. @ 2011-C.1888 Shree Kailash Grain Mills
Pvt Ltd – Golden Bansi Premium Quality
Premium Quality Kesari Rawa
MEDIUM: Eenadu(*), Kurnool Edition, Main Issue
(Telugu) (15.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 Quality Bansi Wheat Product”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting their food
product - `Golden Bansi Kesari Rawa’. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “No.1 Quality Bansi Wheat Product”, was
not substantiated with market survey data, or with
verifiable comparative data of the market share by
value/volume of the advertiser’s brand versus all
other similar wheat brands, to prove that their brand
is in the leadership position (No.1) for quality, nor
the claim was backed by a third-party validation. The
source for the claim was not indicated in the
advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to grave disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
105. @ 2011-C.1904 Murarka Group of
Industries – Muskaan Foods (Range of Products)
MEDIUM: Sambad, Cuttack Edition, Main Issue
(English) (15.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The Best Choice”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting their range
of food products – biscuits, spices, and snacks, and
claims their products to be the best choice of the
consumers.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “The Best Choice”, was not
substantiated with market survey data, or with
verifiable comparative data of advertiser’s products
versus other similar range of food products, to prove
that their products are a better choice than all the rest,
nor the claim was backed by a third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to grave disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
106. @ 2011-C.1905 DSM Fresh Foods Pvt.
Ltd. – Zappfresh.com
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan(*), New Delhi Edition,
Main Issue (English) (30.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Recommendations – December 2020
Claim objected to:
“Fastest, Freshest & Cleanest”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting online
delivery of chicken meat. Upon careful consideration
of the complaint and in the absence of response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Fastest, Freshest & Cleanest”, was not substantiated
with market survey data, or with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s company versus
all other similar meat delivery companies, to prove
that their food products are faster in delivery, fresher,
and cleaner than all the rest, nor through a third-party
validation. The claim is misleading by exaggeration
and is likely to lead to grave disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
107. @ 2011-C.1906 Shri Hari Masala – Range
of Products
MEDIUM: Divya Bhaskar(*), Vadodara Edition,
Main Issue (Gujarati) (22.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“First Choice of Lakhs of Housewives”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting their range
of masala products. Upon careful consideration of
the complaint and in the absence of response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “First
Choice of Lakhs of Housewives”, was not
substantiated with market survey data, or with
verifiable comparative data of advertiser’s masala
products versus all other similar range of masala
products, to prove that the advertiser’s products are
the first choice among lakhs of housewives, nor
through a third-party validation. The source for the
claim was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to grave disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
108. @ 2011-C.1907 NIF Private Limited –
Namaste India Range of Products
MEDIUM: EP Amar Ujala(*), New Delhi Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (30.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Best Procurement Team
2. Best Quality-Check Team
3. Best Delivery Team
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting milk, curd,
and other dairy products. Upon careful consideration
of the complaint and in the absence of response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims,
“Best Procurement Team”, “Best Quality-Check
Team”, and “Best Delivery Team”, were not
substantiated with market survey data, or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
Recommendations – December 2020
company versus all other similar companies selling
milk, curd, and dairy products, to prove that their
procurement team, quality-check team, and delivery
team is better than all the rest, nor the claims were
backed by an independent third-party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
AYUSH Complaints:
109. @ 2011-C.1862 Caram Healthcare India
Pvt Ltd (Jwar Amrutam Tablets)
MEDIUM: Power TV (Kannada) (20.09.2020) (30
Secs) (8:15:56)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. India’s Most Powerful Ayurvedic Tablet
2. 5 Qualities Like Immunity Booster, Antiviral, Anti
Bacterial, Blood Purifier & Lung Protective
CCC RECOMMENDATION: The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail and
submitted their written response.
The advertiser in their reply acknowledged the
receipt of ASCI mail and stated that “the complaint
has been forwarded to their solicitors/legal firms for
further action and follow up.” ASCI Secretariat
followed up with the advertiser by a reminder mail
requesting for their response by the stipulated due
date. However, the advertiser did not submit their
response in time for the Consumer Complaints
Council (CCC) meeting.
The CCC viewed the TVC (in Kannada) and
considered the advertiser’s reply. The CCC observed
that the advertiser is promoting their ayurvedic
medicine -– ‘Jwar Amrutam Tablets’ claiming it to
be India’s most powerful Ayurvedic Tablet. The
TVC also highlights the product qualities of being an
Immunity Booster, Antiviral, Anti Bacterial, purifies
blood and protects Lung. However, the advertiser
did not provide any specific information for the
product such as copy of product approval license,
product label, product composition details, nor any
scientific or technical rationale for the product
claims. The CCC also noted that the advertiser did
not provide any evidence of presence of ingredients
in the tablet responsible for the claimed health
benefits. There was no study data provided of the
product that demonstrated the claimed benefits. In
the absence of claim support data, the CCC
concluded that the claim (in Kannada) as translated in
English, “5 Qualities Like Immunity Booster,
Antiviral, Anti Bacterial, Blood Purifier & Lung
Protective”, was not substantiated with product
efficacy data.
Claim, “India’s Most Powerful Ayurvedic Tablet”
was not substantiated with any market survey data, or
verifiable comparative data, or comparative tests
reports conducted of the advertiser’s product versus
other similar ayurvedic product brands available in
India, to prove that their product is most powerful
compared to all the rest, nor the claim was backed by
an independent third party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The TVC contravened
Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
110. @ 2011-C.1909 GaikwadAyurvedic Clinic
– AyushKwath Tablet (Ayurvedic Immunity
Booster)
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat, Ahmednagar Edition,
Supplement Hello Ahmednagar (Marathi)
(23.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Remove Fat Lumps Permanently”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting an
ayurvedic immunity booster tablet and indicates that
the said product has multiple benefits. However, the
advertiser did not provide product specific
information such composition / licence / pack
Recommendations – December 2020
artwork or samples, scientific rationale for the
product claims. The CCC also noted that the
advertiser did not provide any evidence of presence
of ingredients responsible for the claimed benefits.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Remove Fat Lumps Permanently” was not
substantiated with clinical evidence of product
efficacy. The claim is misleading by exaggeration
and is likely to lead to grave disappointment in the
minds of consumers particularly patients suffering
from fat (lumps). The print advertisement
contravened Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
2012-CCC.23
Complaints received directly by ASCI on OCMS /
contact@ascionline.org
111. W 2011-C.2122 Franke Faber India
Private Limited (Hood Primus Plus Energy TC
HC BK-N 60)
MEDIUM: Punjab Kesari, Jalandhar Edition
(01.11.2020)
Product Packaging
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Faber - India’s No. 1 Kitchen Chimneys and Hobs
Company!
2. Suction – 1500 m3/hr
Complaint:
“Suction 1500 meter cube per hour is fake as per data
collected from siemens bosch and ifb international
brands, claim in there catalogue. Advertisers should
be asked for this false leading claim. Advertisement
in jalandhar kesari sunday 1 november.
Sir faber dealer refused to write suction 1500 meter
cube on bill. And further the company end sales
person present in the company showroom was unable
to provide any measuring device. He was requested
to provide any government approved certification or
laboratory certification for there claims in catalogue
and advertisement. Further he showed box written no
1 kitchen chimney brand. On asking who certified
you as no 1 brand again no answer. Big news in the
newspaper made me very clear about this fake
misleading ad by faber.
While importing from china proforma invoice and
certification is needed which should be asked from
faber against their claims 1500 meter cube per hour.
This product is to be sold to consumers all over India.
And it is right of the consumer to know about the
standard quality quantity potency of the product
purchased.
I feel bad when I see companies advertising their
products with wrong specifications to innocent
consumers. I assure that there will be no certification
laboratory test with faber in there claims about 1500
meter cube per hour.”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered
an opportunity to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat
to seek further guidance, which they did not avail and
submitted their written response.
Advertiser submitted point-wise reply to the
objections raised in the complaint.
Claim – “Faber - India’s No. 1 Kitchen Chimneys
and Hobs Company!” – In response to this objection,
the advertiser stated that “their claim is based on data
published by Euromonitor Inc (the leading agency
publishing market size estimates and brand shares
for multiple categories of large appliances and
domains across the globe) for the India Market. The
data comprehensively validates their claim of
leadership position in Large Kitchen Appliances,
Cooker Hoods and Hobs.”
Claim - “Suction – 1500 m3/hr” – Advertiser stated
that “Hoods as a product category is currently not
governed by any statutory certification nor is it
covered as a product category under mandatory BIS
certification. Their claim on the said product is
based on product validation done internally in their
own lab which is BIS certified and this claim is
further validated by the findings certified by a
reputed third-party lab.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided – 1)
Copy of the print advertisement, 2) Copy of the front
and back of Product packaging, 3) Euromonitor
International Report of January 2020 for `Large
Cooking Appliances in India’, 4) Hood Primus
Energy Carton, 5) AirFlow Primus Claim Internal
Test Report, 6) Third party laboratory report.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the print advertisement and the product packaging
and considered the advertiser’s response along with
the supporting data provided by them.
The CCC reviewed the Euromonitor report and
observed that in the category of `NBO Company
Recommendations – December 2020
Shares of Built-in Hobs: % Volume 2015-2019`,
`NBO Company Shares of Cooker Hoods: % Volume
2015-2019’ and `NBO Company Shares of
Freestanding Cooker Hoods: % Volume 2015-2019’,
the advertiser’s name (Faber Heatkraft Industries
Ltd) was listed in the No.1 position amongst other
manufacturers of cooking appliances in India.
The CCC also reviewed the two laboratory reports
submitted of March 2020 for the air suction test
conducted. The results of these tests showed the air
flow capacity as 1542.42 m3/h and 1542.46 m3/h.
Based on the advertiser’s response with the
supporting data provided, the CCC concluded that the
print advertisement claim, “Suction – 1500 m3/hr”,
and the product packaging claim, “Faber - India’s
No. 1 Kitchen Chimneys and Hobs Company!” were
substantiated. The print advertisement and the
product packaging was not in contravention of
Chapter I of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
NOT UPHELD.
112. OC 2011-C.2123 Zomato Private
Limited– (Zomato)
MEDIUM: ZEE TAMIL (THIRAI) (*), VENDER
TV (TAMIL), Leading English & Hindi TV
Channels
YouTube(*)
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n09j7hcU-IA)
ADVERTISING AGENCY: MagicCircle
Communications Private Limited
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
“This is to bring to your kind notice that, as we all
know that advertisement are use to promote
manufacture and their product to reach public in a
decent manner, at any cost that may not degrade our
culture ethics and practice, but unfortunately
ZOMATO food delivery app defaming basic our
household culture i.e., COOKING which is highly
disturbing, past one week do so their advertisement
telecast by the National Television Channels during
program break in ZEE TAMIL (THIRAI) VENDER
TV (TAMIL) this advertisement comes both in
HINDI AND TAMIL also in LEADING ENGLISH
AND HINDI TV CHANNELS
ZOMATO is a like call center, they dont have
anyauthority to say ONLINE FOOD IS SAFE
through its food delivery business, Zomato charges a
commission to the restaurants on the basis of orders.
While users pay a delivery fee, Zomato earns through
restaurants that pay a commission for each delivery,
which is then split among the delivery partner and the
company.
NARATION OF THE ADVERTISEMENT:
Family in the picture (PRENTS, FATHER,
MOTHER AND THEIR SON)
1: - Son opening the food box and enjoys the smell of
food (shahiPanner) Aaahhha he mesmerized .
2 - Father: Asking who camelooks like shouting
seeing his son with joy Ah shahipanner asking his
son, you are hiding and eating not shamed..
3- Son: BABA. online food haySafe hay na (It safe
know) Then why you are not inform –
4-Father: REPETING Food Delivery safe. then why
you are not informs, you dont feel ashamed of it ?
Eating home cooked food without any taste in the
past.
5-Again says, order karo ..Order it now, Chicken
Briyani, Chicken 65Bread Halwa
6-Mother: Order Karo. (Order it) buy her body
language
7-Son: Over joy baba.
ZOMATO ABJACTIONAL CONTENT OF THIS
ADVERTIMENT IS : Degrading Homely cooking at
home by misleading the younger generation that lead
to encouraging restaurant and hotel food Culture
encouragingNOT to COOK AT HOME ( how they
justify it)
How they says that ONLINE FOOD DELIVERY IS
SAFE? Are they conducting test like food safety
standard as per FSSAI standard before delivering it to
consumer.
Food Delivery safe, then why you are not informs us,
Shame on you, this must days we are eating with
tasty home food.
CONCLUTION
ZOMATO is a like call center, they dont have any
authority to say ONLINE FOOD IS SAFE through its
food delivery business, Zomato charges a
commission to the restaurants on the basis of orders.
While users pay a delivery fee, Zomato earns through
restaurants that pay a commission for each delivery,
which is then split among the delivery partner and the
company.
Therefore, I am requesting ASCI to take appropriate
action to correct the narration or stop this
advertisement.”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered
an opportunity to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat
to seek further guidance, which they did not avail and
submitted their written response.
Recommendations – December 2020
Advertiser submitted point-wise reply to the
objections raised in the complaint.
Objection 1 - `Zomato food delivery app defaming
basic our household culture i.e., cooking’ – In
response to this objection, the advertiser stated that
“it is a matter of personal choice and preference
whether a person wants to opt for home delivery of
food or eat home cooked food. The advertisement is
a very fair and reasonable method of advertising and
promoting food delivery without defaming the
household culture of cooking in any manner. Zomato
has not directly or indirectly defamed the basic
household culture of cooking in any manner
whatsoever.”
Objection 2 - `Zomato is a like call center, they don’t
have any authority to say Online Food Is Safe’ -
Advertiser stated that “Zomato has not made any
independent claim stating that food delivery is safe. A
footnote in the advertisement clearly mentions
towards the end that ‘WHO says food delivery is
safe’. Since it is the official position taken by the
WHO, Zomato has attributed the source of this
information in the advertisement. Dr. Michael Ryan
of the WHO has categorically stated that “People
should not fear food or food packaging or the
processing or delivery of food” and “...people should
feel comfortable and feel safe”. The fact that the
Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India had
notified orders and guidelines to the various states
and union territories in India allowing home delivery
of food during the lockdown imposed by the
government in itself negates the view that home
delivery of food is not safe.”
Advertiser in their response presented examples of
such orders and guidelines notified by the MHA:
Paragraph 2 on page 1 of MHA Order 1 clearly
recognizes home delivery of food as supply of
essential goods.
Section 4 (e) on page 1 of Annexure to Ministry of
Home Affairs Order No. 40-3/2020-D dated
24.03.2020 (“MHA Order 2”) and Section 4 (e) on
page 2 of Consolidated Guidelines on the measures to
be taken by Ministries/ Departments of Government
of India, State/Union Territory Governments and
State/ Union Territory Authorities for containment of
COVID-19 Epidemic in the Country……. (“MHA
Guidelines”) clearly state that “district authorities
may encourage and facilitate home delivery to
minimize the movement of individuals outside their
homes”, “Delivery of all essential goods including
food, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment through E-
commerce” as an exception to closure of commercial
and private establishments during the COVID-19
pandemic outbreak.
Advertiser in their response also listed the `Standard
Operating Procedure’ followed by them.
In support of their response, the advertiser provided –
(1) Copy of the TVC, (2) Transcript of COVID-19
Virtual Press Conference of the World Health
Organisation (WHO), (3) Order No. 40-3/2020-
DM-I(A) dated March 26, 2020 notified by the
Ministry of Home Affairs (“MHA”), Government of
India, (4) Annexure to Ministry of Home Affairs
Order No. 40-3/2020-D dated 24.03.2020 (“MHA
Order 2”), (5) Consolidated Guidelines on the
measures to be taken by Ministries/ Departments of
Government of India, State/Union Territory
Governments and State/ Union Territory Authorities
for containment of COVID-19 Epidemic in the
Country, as notified by Ministry of Home Affairs on
24.03.2020 and further modified on 25.03.2020 and
27.03.2020 (“MHA Guidelines”).
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the TVC and the YouTube advertisement
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n09j7hcU-IA)
and considered the advertiser’s response.
The CCC was of the view that there is nothing in the
advertisement that suggests anything defamatory if a
person who eats home cooked food decides to opt for
home delivery of food. In the context of the
advertisement, the CCC concluded that the
advertisement does not degrade homely cooking at
home. The advertisement was not in contravention of
Chapter IV of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
NOT UPHELD.
The CCC reviewed the data submitted of WHO Press
Conference report, various orders and guidelines
issued by Ministries/ Departments of Government of
India, Standard Operating Procedure, in support of
their claim of `online food delivery being safe’. The
CCC also noted that the TVC carries a disclaimer to
mention, “WHO says food delivery is safe”.
The CCC felt that the advertiser is not responsible for
cooking of the food nor are they responsible for the
consumers eating the food. The advertiser is only
responsible for the delivery and the only claim they
are making is `online food delivery is safe’ which
they have backed up by WHO data and Government
notifications. The CCC was also of the view that any
food product that is ordered or used, one needs to
wash their hands before eating or using. This is
beyond the advertiser’s purview whether one washes
his/her hands or not as that is an individual safety
precaution that the consumers need to take, for which
the advertiser cannot be held responsible.
Based on the advertiser’s response with the
supporting data provided, by majority the CCC
concluded that the claim, “…… Food Delivery Toh
Safe Hai”, was not objectionable. The advertisement
was not in contravention of Chapter I of the ASCI
Recommendations – December 2020
Code. This complaint was NOT UPHELD.
However, the CCC recommended that the advertiser
should include an added precaution in favour of the
public, by a disclaimer to mention that the `hands
need to be washed before eating and handling the
packaging material’.
113. OC 2011-C.2135 Havells India Limited
(Havells Alkaline Water Purifier)
MEDIUM: Instagram advertisement
(https://www.instagram.com/p/CE8UxZhB8PL/?igsh
id=5f0x9obxysqo)
Facebook advertisement, Website advertisement
(https://www.havells.com/en/consumer/water-
purifier.html)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Immuno shield technology
2. Alkaline water helps build a strong immune system
and keep diseases at bay
Complaint:
“Havells Alkaline water purifiers provide you water
that helps in building a strong immune system.
Havells claims that their water purifier with Alkaline
helps build a strong immune system. How is this
possible and in a way it's misleading, especially
during the covid times. The claims seem false and
plays with consumer fears.
ASCI observes in the current Covid-19 pandemic
situation, the visual resembling Coronavirus would
make the viewers believe that the Havells Alkaline
Water Purifier acts as Immuno shield against
Coronavirus.
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered
an opportunity to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat
to seek further guidance, which they did not avail and
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “As per a study published in
the Journal of the International Society of Sports
Nutrition, a significant difference in the whole blood
viscosity of participants was observed after
consuming alkaline water as opposed to regular
water after a strenuous workout. According to a
study published in Evidence Based Complementary
and Alternative Medicine, alkaline water provides
higher longevity in terms of “deceleration aging
factor” as it increases the survival functions. A study
published in the Alternative Therapies in Health and
Medicine showed that consumption of alkaline water
may prevent osteoporosis and protect pancreatic beta
cells with its antioxidant effects. Yet another study
published in Public Library of Science (PLOS) said
that drinking alkalized water enhances hydration,
improves acid base balance and anaerobic exercise
performance. It is clear from the above that Alkaline
water strengthens our defence system, enhances our
immunity and the capacity of our body to fight
diseases. It is denied that the visual resembles that of
the corona virus. More over any depiction of a round
shape is not necessarily a reference to corona virus.
Several Viruses including Influenza, Rotavirus are
similar spherical in shape.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided - (1)
Copy of advertisements of other water purifiers
making similar claims related to pure water and
immunity, and (2) Website links for literature
references on benefits of Alkaline water.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the Instagram
(https://www.instagram.com/p/CE8UxZhB8PL/?igsh
id=5f0x9obxysqo), Facebook and Website
advertisement
(https://www.havells.com/en/consumer/water-
purifier.html) and considered the advertiser’s
response.
The CCC noted that while the advertiser has made
assertions about their claims, there were no technical
data or test reports provided for the product
performance claims made.
The CCC observed that the literature references by
way of website links were provided. However, there
was no immune related test data for water produced
by the appliance - Havells Alkaline Water Purifiers.
There was also no evidence submitted that Alkaline
water processed by the purifier helps build a strong
immune system in humans. The product’s feature of
`Immuno shield technology’ was not explained. The
advertisements of other advertiser’s product given
does not give justification for their own claim.
Hence the claims are based only on the literature
references.
In the absence of claim support data, the CCC
concluded that the claims, "Immuno shield
technology” and “Alkaline water helps build a strong
immune system and keep diseases at bay”, were not
substantiated. The claims are misleading by
exaggeration and are likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers.
In the current Covid-19 pandemic situation, the
images shown resembling Coronavirus would
Recommendations – December 2020
mislead the viewers to believe that Havells Alkaline
Water Purifier acts as Immuno shield against
Coronavirus.
The Instagram, Facebook, and the Website
advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
114. @ Suo Motu 2011-C.2208 Welspun
Global Brands Ltd (Spaces Bed Linen)
MEDIUM: YouTube(*)
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0iFKZ0Tfs0)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Anti Corona Bed Linen from SPACES
2. Spaces Bed linen with Health Guard finish fights
against Coronavirus
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the YouTube advertisement
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0iFKZ0Tfs0)
and noted that the Advertiser was in the business of
Home textile products such as bedsheets, quilts
cushion covers etc. The CCC observed that the
Advertiser in its ad had claimed that the bed linens
from SPACES were capable of killing 99.99% the
COVID-19 virus which comes into contact with the
fabric and the same was also tested by the
independent NABL accredited laboratory in
accordance with the modified ISO test method. The
CCC also observed that the Bed linens did not
prevent corona virus but claimed to kill the same, if
came into contact with the fabric.
The disclaimer provided by the Advertiser in the
advertisement was duly noted by the CCC. However
the test methodology was not available in order to
prove the claims as true. The Advertiser did not
provide data to substantiate that the bed linens were
Anti Corona or Health Guard finish assembled in the
lines were capable of killing the Coronavirus.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claims, “Anti Corona Bed Linen
from SPACES” and “Spaces Bed linen with Health
Guard finish fights against Coronavirus”, were not
substantiated. The claims are misleading by
exaggeration and are likely to lead to grave or
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The YouTube advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
NAMS Complaints:
115. @ 2009-C.1276 NSHM Knowledge
Campus
MEDIUM: EP Prabhat Khabar, Patna Edition, Main
Issue (English) (29.07.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"Award for Best Education Group in East by
ASSOCHAM"
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “NSHM Knowledge Campus
received the award for the best education group in
the east from ASSOCHAM India on 20th July'2019.
The award was given based on the data provided by
the institution.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided a copy
of the award certificate.
As this response was inadequate, ASCI Secretariat
requested the advertiser to provide the details of the
survey methodology with the outcome of the survey.
Advertiser did not submit this information in time for
the Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) meeting.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
considered the advertiser’s response. The CCC
observed that the advertiser has made the said claim
on the basis of the award granted to their institute by
ASSOCHAM. However, the photograph of the
award certificate is by itself not sufficient evidence to
support the claim. Additionally, details on the
protocol/process followed by the awarding/ranking
organization is required to substantiate the claim.
The CCC noted that despite ASCI’s request, the
Recommendations – December 2020
advertiser did not provide the basis for the award or
the survey methodology followed to obtain this
information such as the details of the process as to
how the selection for the award was done, details of
the criteria for granting the award, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
institutes that were part of the survey, the outcome of
the survey, and the details about the awarding body.
The source for the claim was not indicated in the
advertisement.
Based on these observations, the CCC concluded that
the claim, "Award for Best Education Group in East
by ASSOCHAM" was inadequately substantiated and
is misleading by exaggeration. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, Clauses 8 i ii(ia) ii(a b c) of the ASCI
Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements as well as Chapters I.1, I.2 and I.4 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
116. @ 2011-C.1715 Motion Academy
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan(*), Agra Edition, Main
Issue,(Hindi), (17.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Your trust made us the Best in Agra”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is providing
coaching for Medical, NEET and JEE exams. Upon
careful consideration of the complaint and in the
absence of any response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Your trust made us the
Best in Agra”, was not substantiated with market
survey data, or with verifiable comparative data of
the advertiser’s academy and other similar academies
in Agra, to prove that they are better than all the rest
in providing coaching to their students for the exams
as claimed, or through an independent third-party
validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened the ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
117. @ 2011-C.1733 Supreme Solar Projects
Private Limited – Supreme Solar
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat, Aurangabad Edition,
Supplement Hello Aurangabad (Marathi)
(24.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India’s No.1”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail and
responded that they are “attaching the survey report
which is conducted by BRG group London.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided a copy
of the BRG report on Heating Products.
The complaint and the advertiser’s response with the
claim support data was referred to an independent
technical expert of ASCI. The expert opinion was
shared with the advertiser for making any additional
submissions. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for IR at this stage based on the expert
opinion.
The advertiser did not opt for an IR neither did they
submit any additional data in response to the expert
opinion.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the print advertisement and considered the
advertiser’s response as well as the opinion of the
Technical expert presented at the meeting. The CCC
observed that the summary slide presented from the
report lists 5 Top Suppliers. There is a mention that
the 2019 full report provides analysis of sales
volumes and values. The data presented by the
advertiser does not indicate the sales volumes or
values of the various brands of Solar water heaters. In
addition, the source of the data should also be
indicated, whether this data is based on published
data on production or sales, industry expert estimates
or other methods. There is also need to clarify
Recommendations – December 2020
whether the data pertains to manufacture of solar
water heaters (which might include manufacture of
white-label products for use by other brands) or
relates to Supreme Solar branded water heaters.
Based on this assessment, the CCC concluded that
the claim, "India’s No.1” was inadequately
substantiated. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration. The source for the claim was not
indicated in the advertisement. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.2 and I.4
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
118. @ 2011-C.1763 CLATapult Education
LLP- Clatapult Coaching
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://questionpaperz.in)
(English) (18.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“CLAT Coaching by NUJS Grads- Ranks 1 from
WB: 2016-2019”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://questionpaperz.in) and observed that the
Advertiser’s institute is providing CLAT coaching
and also claims to be ranked 1st from West Bengal:
2016-2019.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “CLAT Coaching by
NUJS Grads- Ranks 1 from WB: 2016-2019” was not
substantiated with copy of the award certificate,
details of the process for award selection, criteria for
granting the award, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
CLAT coaching institutes/ colleges that were part of
the survey, the outcome of the survey, and details
about the awarding body. The source of the claim
was not mentioned in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers, especially students. The Digital display
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
119. @ 2011-C.1767 EduPristine
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://siasat.com)
(English) (03.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Assured Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. . The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://siasat.com) and observed that the advertiser’s
institute is promoting career in finance and offering
CFA training with assured placement assistance.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Assured Placement
Assistance” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their institute in relevant industry sectors on
completion of their courses, their appointment letters,
list of students who were not placed and the reason
for their non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
Recommendations – December 2020
students as well as general public at large. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
made in supporting, limiting or explaining claims
made in advertisements. This complaint was
UPHELD.
120. 2011-C.1781 Abroad Education
Consultancy (AEC)
MEDIUM: Saurashtra Samachar(*), Bhavnagar
Edition, Main Issue,(English), (27.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Visa Guarantee”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. . The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed Print advertisement (in Gujarathi)
and observed that the advertiser is into business of
consultants for studies in abroad by claiming to
provide guaranteed Visa.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “100% Visa
Guarantee” was not substantiated with detailed list of
students/candidates who received visa for pursuing
MBBS in Europe, evidence to support their
enrolment including their Contact details for
independent verification, nor the claim was backed
by an independent third party validation. The claim
is misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The Print advertisement contravened
ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs, as well as Chapters 1.1,
1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
121. @ 2011-C.1782 Foodtech Consults(P)Ltd-
Global Institute of Vocational Education and Skill
Development
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan(*), Agra Edition, Main
Issue, (Hindi), (30.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Join our Industry Ready Courses with 100% Job
Assurance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is offering one/
two-year diploma courses, and is assuring placement
to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Join our Industry Ready
Courses with 100% Job Assurance” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their institute in
relevant industry sectors on completion of their
courses, their appointment letters, list of students who
were not placed and the reason for their non-
placement, nor any independent audit or verification
certificate. Furthermore, the advertisement did not
have any disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no
guarantee of future job prospects” nor did it have a
declaration of the total number of students passing
out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in
supporting, limiting or explaining claims made in
Recommendations – December 2020
advertisements, as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
122. @ 2011-C.1792 Excel Academy
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://symbaloo.com)
(English) (24.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Learn French from No.1 Institute”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://symbaloo.com) which stated that the
Advertiser were the No. 1 Institute for learning
French.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the leadership claim, “Learn
French from No.1 Institute” was not substantiated
with verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
institute and other similar institutes imparting French
lessons, to prove that they are in leadership position
(No.1) in teaching French. The claim was also not
backed by a third-party validation. The source for the
claim was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The Digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
123. @ 2011-C.1839 E.S. Group of
Institutions-E. S Polytechnic College
MEDIUM: Dinamalar, Pondicherry Edition, Main
Issue, (Tamil), (27.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Guaranteed Job Opportunity”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. . The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is offering
various under graduate courses, post graduate
courses, and research programs as well as diploma
courses and is assuring guaranteed job opportunity to
their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “100% Guaranteed Job
Opportunity” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their institute in relevant industry sectors on
completion of their courses, their appointment letters,
list of students who were not placed and the reason
for their non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in
supporting, limiting or explaining claims made in
advertisements, as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
124. @ 2011-C.1848 YUVA Healthcare
Institute of Advanced Skills
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://drikpanchang.com), National Edition (English)
(13.08.2020)
Recommendations – December 2020
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The most advanced medical simulation lab in the
country”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://drikpanchang.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is providing B.Sc. Paramedical
Courses. Upon careful consideration of the complaint
and in the absence of any response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “The
most advanced medical simulation lab in the
country”, was not substantiated with market survey
data, or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s medical simulation Lab and other similar
institute’s medical lab in the country, to prove that
their medical simulation lab is most advanced than all
the rest, nor the claim was backed by an independent
third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The digital display
advertisement contravened the ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as the Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
125. @ 2011-C.1871 Grade Stack Learning
Pvt. Ltd-(Gradeup)
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://recruitment.guru)
(English) (22.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“#1 Practice Test for SLAT”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://recruitment.guru) and observed that the
Advertiser is providing unlimited access to online
mock test for SLAT, AILET, MH CET, BA LLB and
other Law Entrance Exams.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “#1 Practice Test for
SLAT” was not substantiated with a verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s institute and
other similar institutes providing such test series to
the students, to prove that they are in leadership for
providing SLAT practice test. The claim was also
not backed by a third-party validation. The source for
the claim was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The Digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
126. @ 2011-C.1891 Siva Sivani Institute of
Management (SSIM)
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Hyderabad Edition,
Main Issue, (English) (31.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Ranked #1 Private B-School in Hyderabad by CSR-
GHRDC”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they availed and submitted
their written response.
Advertiser stated that “they forward an email shared
across to them by CSR-GHRDC. They've furnished
the parameters and process of scrutiny which
becomes basis of this ranking system.”
Recommendations – December 2020
The complaint and the advertiser’s response with the
claim support data was referred to an independent
technical expert of ASCI. The expert opinion was
shared with the advertiser for making any additional
submissions. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for IR at this stage based on the expert
opinion.
The advertiser did not opt for an IR neither did they
submit any additional data in response to the expert
opinion.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the print advertisement and considered the
advertiser’s response as well as the opinion of the
Technical expert presented at the meeting. The CCC
observed that the advertiser has stated that this
ranking is based on the information provided by
Global Human Resource Development Centre
(GHRDC) to Competition Success Review. In their
response, the advertiser has mentioned that this
ranking is based on voluntary participation of
business schools and that for the study under
reference 134 colleges provided information about
their institutions. The key parameters for evaluation
were indicated and almost 45% of the participating
institutions were visited by evaluators to validate the
data provided.
The parameters used for evaluation appear to be
detailed and close to half the participating institutions
have been personally visited to validate the data
provided. However, the results of the ranking
exercise across region
(http://ghrdc.org/website/b_schooldirect.html)
indicates many surprising results. In Gujarat, among
both public and private b-schools, Institute of
Management at Nirma University is ranked No.1; in
West Bengal it is Eastern Institute of Integrated
Learning in Management, Kolkata which is ranked
No. 1; and in Karnataka it is the International School
of Management Excellence which is ranked No.1.
Considering that many top business schools across
the country do not figure in the GHRDC ranking calls
into question the comprehensiveness in coverage of
this exercise and therefore its very credibility.
Based on this assessment, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “Ranked #1 Private B-School in
Hyderabad by CSR-GHRDC” was inadequately
substantiated with supporting ranking data. The
source for the claim was not indicated in the
advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The advertisement contravened the ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisement, as well as
Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
127. @ 2011-C.1912 Paras Hospital (Dr.
Pradeep Aggarwal & Dr. Anand Jindal)
MEDIUM: EP Amar Ujala(*), Chandigarh Edition,
Supplement My City(English) (26.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Dedicated Team of Best Orthopedic Surgeons at
Paras Hospital, Panchkula”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s Hospital is providing
various Orthopaedics services including joint
replacement surgeries, spine surgery etc. The CCC
observed that no market survey data, or verifiable
comparative data/ study of the advertiser’s
Orthopaedic Surgeons team versus Orthopaedic
Surgeons teams of other similar hospitals was
provided, to prove that the team engaged by the
Advertiser is better than all the rest as claimed. The
claim was also not validated by an independent third-
party.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Dedicated Team of
Best Orthopaedic Surgeons at Paras Hospital,
Panchkula”, was not substantiated. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of public.
The print advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1,
1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
128. @ 2011-C.1932 NIPS Group India-NIPS
Hotel Management
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://forbes.com),
(English) (23.08.2020)
Recommendations – December 2020
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Ranked No.1 in Eastern India
2. Best International Placements Award
Objection:
Additionally, the claim “Ranked No.1 in Eastern
India” was challenged under complaint reference no.
1905-C.616 and is in continued violation
CCC RECOMMENDATION: The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
For the claim of “Ranked No. 1 in Eastern India”, the
advertiser provided their earlier communication of
June 2019 with ASCI.
For the claim of “Best International Placement
Award”, the advertiser stated that “they are recipient
of the said award this year and it was awarded by
AsiaOne Magazine. ASCI may contact them for
survey detail and any such information that ASCI
may require.” As claim support data, the advertiser
provided a copy of the award certificate.
The onus to provide supporting data for the claims
made in the advertisement is on the advertiser as they
ought to have such data available with them prior to
making the claims. Hence the ASCI Secretariat
requested the advertiser to provide the details of the
survey methodology with the outcome of the survey,
for the award related claim.
ASCI Secretariat further clarified to the Advertiser
that the claim of “Ranked No. 1 in Eastern India”,
objected to in the present complaint (2011-C.1932) is
in continued violation of ASCI’s earlier complaint
(1905-C.616) which was closed under IR mechanism
as the advertiser had then assured to use the source of
the ranking as a Disclaimer for this claim.
Advertiser did not submit the required information in
time for the Consumer Complaints Council (CCC)
meeting.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
considered the advertiser’s response. The CCC
observed that the advertiser did not provide any
support data with a copy of the award certificate for
the claim of “Ranked No. 1 in Eastern India”.
The CCC further noted that the advertiser was
granted a Black Swan award for `Best International
Placements 2019-20’ by Asia One Magazine.
However, the photograph of the award certificate is
by itself not sufficient evidence to support the claim.
Additionally, details on the protocol/process followed
by the awarding/ranking organization is required to
substantiate the claim, which was not provided by the
advertiser despite ASCI’s request.
In the absence of claim support data, the CCC
concluded that the claims, “Ranked No.1 in Eastern
India” and “Best International Placements Award”,
were not substantiated with supporting ranking data
such as details of the process for awards selection,
criteria for granting the awards, survey methodology,
parameters considered, questionnaires used, names of
other similar institutes that were part of the survey,
the outcome of the survey, and the details of the
awarding bodies. The source for the claims was not
indicated in the advertisement. The claims are
misleading by exaggeration. The print advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs, Clauses 8 i
ii(ia) ii(a b c) of the ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements as well as
Chapters I.1, I.2 and I.4 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
129. @ 2011-C.1939 Galaxy Life Sciences
(Vellasafe Skin Cream)
MEDIUM: Rajasthan Patrika(*), Udaipur Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (28.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Remove Deep Marks and Increases Natural Beauty
2. See the Difference in just 7 Days
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the Print advertisement and noted
that the Advertiser is promoting a skin cream and is
claiming that the product removes deep marks,
burned marks, wounds and increases natural Beauty
in seven days. The CCC observed that the advertiser
did not provide product specific information such as
copy of product approval license, copy of product
Recommendations – December 2020
label, and product composition details, and evidence
of ingredients present in the product.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims
“Remove Deep Marks and Increases Natural Beauty”
and “See the Difference in just 7 Days”, were not
substantiated with product efficacy data. The claims
are misleading by exaggeration and are likely to lead
to grave disappointment in the minds of consumers.
The print advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1,
1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
130. @ 2011-C.1946 Ducat India
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://thoughtco.com)
(English) (19.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Ducat provide Best Java Training by industry
expert with 100% placement assistance
2. Best Java Training Institute
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://thoughtco.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is claiming that it is a best java
training institute and it provides placement assistance
to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the advertiser may be
providing placement assistance to their students for
getting jobs in relevant industry sectors, the use of
100% numerical is not relevant for “Ducat provide
Best Java Training by industry expert with Placement
Assistance” claim. There cannot be a percentage
assigned to any assistance claim such as 40% or 80%
assistance. The use of “100%” as a descriptor in the
claim is misleading by implication and is likely to
lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students.
The CCC also concluded that the claim, “ Best Java
Training Institute” was not substantiated with any
market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s training institute versus other
institutes to prove that they are better than the rest in
providing java training courses, nor the claim was
backed by a third party validation. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of students.
The digital display advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
131. @ 2011-C.1947 Skill-Lync
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://theconstructor.org) (English) (20.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Join India's No.1 Engg. Platform”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the Digital display advertisement
(http://theconstructor.org) and observed that
Advertiser is providing a platform for engineers with
surety of working on projects and interacting with the
experts. Upon careful consideration of the complaint,
and in the absence of any response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “Join
India's No.1 Engg. Platform” was not substantiated
with verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
engineering platform and engineering platforms of
other institutes in India, to prove that they are in
leadership position (No.1). The leadership claim was
not supported by any third-party validation. The
source for the claim was also not indicated in the
advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
Recommendations – December 2020
students. The Digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
132. @ 2011-C.1948 Skill-Lync
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://freshersworld.com) (English) (17.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 Mechanical Engg. Platform”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the Digital display advertisement
(http://freshersworld.com) and observed that
Advertiser is providing a platform for mechanical
engineers with surety of working on hands on
projects and imparting of top-rated courses in the
field from the experts. Upon careful consideration of
the complaint, and in the absence of any response
from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the
claim, “No.1 Mechanical Engg. Platform” was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s Engineering platform and Engineering
Platforms of similar institutes, to prove that they are
in leadership position (No.1) for providing
mechanical engineering courses, or through an
independent third-party validation. The source for the
claim was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The Digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
133. @ 2011-C.1950 Pace Pioneer Academy
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://4essay.blogspot.in) (English) (14.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Best Coaching, test integrated, study plan for every
student, exam oriented coaching
2. Clear UPSC in First Attempt
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://4essay.blogspot.in). and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is claiming that it is providing
best coaching, test integrated study plan for every
student and is also assuring that the students will
clear their exams in first attempt.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Best Coaching, test
integrated, study plan for every student, exam
oriented coaching” was not substantiated with any
market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s academy versus other
academies to prove that they are better than the rest
in providing test integrated study plan to their
students, nor the claim was backed by a third party
validation. The claim “Clear UPSC in First Attempt”
was not substantiated with detailed list of their
students who cleared UPSC exams in first attempt,
with Contact details for independent verification by
ASCI, not the claim was backed by an independent
third party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
134. @ 2011-C.1960 Mukesh Patodia Hospital
(Dr. Shyam Sundar Patodia)
Recommendations – December 2020
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Alwar Edition,
Supplement AlwarBhaskar(Hindi) (15.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Successful Treatment of Migraine, Lump in Uterus,
Ovarian Cyst, Thyroid, Lack of Height without
Medicine and Injection through Herbal Electropathy
Medicines”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the Print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser does electropathy testing process
and provides treatment for migraine, Lump in Uterus,
Ovarian Cyst, Thyroid, Lack of Height, etc through
herbal electropathy medicines, without any medicine
and injection. The CCC observed that the advertiser
did not provide any details of the treatment
procedure, nor any details regarding the medicines
used for treatment of the claimed diseases, and their
approval status by the regulatory authorities.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Successful Treatment of Migraine, Lump in Uterus,
Ovarian Cyst, Thyroid, Lack of Height without
Medicine and Injection through Herbal Electropathy
Medicines” was not substantiated with any
supporting clinical evidence of their patients who
were successfully treated for the diseases claimed and
with treatment efficacy data. The claims are
misleading by exaggeration and are likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers particularly patients suffering from
migraine, thyroid, uterus lump, height and ovary
problems. The Print advertisement contravened
Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
135. @ 2011-C.1961 Rexler Health Care Pvt.
Ltd (Rexler Hair Oil)
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Muzaffarpur
Edition, Main Issue (Hindi) (30.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Freedom from Hair Breakage and Hair fall in Just
One Week”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the Print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting its hair oil
by claiming to provide guaranteed results in just one
week. However, the advertiser did not provide
product specific information such as copy of product
approval license, product label, and product
composition details.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Freedom from Hair Breakage and Hair fall in Just
One Week”, was not substantiated with clinical
evidence of product efficacy. The claim is misleading
by exaggeration and is likely to lead to grave
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The Print
advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
136. @ 2011-C.1963 Skill-Lync
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://apnaahangout.com) (English) (20.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Best Mechanical Design Course”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
Recommendations – December 2020
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://apnaahangout.com) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for mechanical
design course.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Best Mechanical
Design Course” was not substantiated with any
market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s coaching class versus other
similar coaching classes or institutes, to prove that
their Mechanical Design Course is better than the
rest, nor the claim was backed by a third-party
validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
137. @ 2011-C.1965 Vajirao and Reddy
Institute Pvt. Ltd
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://freehomedelivery.net) (English) (09.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“IAS Achievers 1st Choice, Best Civil Services Exam
Coaching Institute in Delhi”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://freehomedelivery.net) and observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for civil services
examinations and is also claiming to be the first
choice of all the students who have passed the IAS
examinations.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “IAS Achievers 1st
Choice, Best Civil Services Exam Coaching Institute
in Delhi” was not substantiated with any market
survey data or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s institute versus other institutes in Delhi
providing coaching for civil services exams, to prove
that they are better than the rest in training students
for Civil Services Exam. The claim was also not
backed by a third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
138. @ 2011-C.1966 The Gate Academy Pvt.
Ltd
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://radio-
electronics.com ) (English) (29.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. #1 Online Coaching for GATE IN
2. Best Live Online Classes
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://radio-electronics.com). The CCC observed
that the advertiser is providing online coaching for
GATE IN and is also claiming to be the No. 1 online
coaching institute for GATE IN.
Recommendations – December 2020
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the leadership claim, “#1 Online
Coaching for GATE IN” was not substantiated with
any verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
institute versus other online coaching institutes, to
prove that they are in leadership position (No.1), nor
the claim was backed by a third party validation. The
source for the claim was not indicated in the
advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
139. @ 2011-C.1967 Saroj Education Group
(SEG)
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://tamil.filmibeat.com) (English) (28.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Placements since 25 years
2. Most Awarded Institute of the Year
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://tamil.filmibeat.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is offering courses such as BBA,
BCA, BTECH, MBA, MCA, MPHARMA, MTECH
etc. and is assuring placement to their students. The
CCC also viewed that the advertiser has claimed that
the institute is most awarded institute of the year.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “100% Placements since 25
years” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data on year on year basis for the last 25
years as claimed, such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their institute in relevant industry sectors on
completion of their courses, their appointment letters,
list of students who were not placed and the reason
for their non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim, “Most Awarded Institute of the Year”,
was not substantiated with copy of the award
certificate, details of the process for award selection,
criteria for granting the award, survey methodology,
parameters considered, questionnaires used, the
outcome of the survey, and details about the
awarding body. The source of the claim was not
mentioned in the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers including students. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs as well as Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines for
Disclaimers made in supporting, limiting or
explaining claims made in advertisements. This
complaint was UPHELD.
140. @ 2011-C.1968 Shoolini University
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://collegedekho.com ) (English) (27.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Employability”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
Recommendations – December 2020
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://collegedekho.com ) and observed that the
advertiser’s university is assuring 100%
Employability to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim “100% Employability”
was not substantiated with authentic supporting data
such as batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were employed through their university
in relevant industry sectors on completion of their
courses, their appointment letters, list of students who
were not employed and the reason for their non-
employment, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The digital display
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI Code,
and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in
supporting, limiting or explaining claims made in
advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
141. @ 2011-C.1969 ICCS College of
Engineering & Management
MEDIUM: EP Mathrubhumi(*), Kochi Edition,
Main Issue,(English), (29.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Job Assured PC”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s college is offering
coaching for various B.tech programmes, Diploma
programmes and is assuring jobs to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Job Assured PC” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their college in
relevant industry sectors on completion of their
courses, their appointment letters, list of students who
were not placed and the reason for their non-
placement, nor any independent audit or verification
certificate. Furthermore, the advertisement did not
have any disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no
guarantee of future job prospects” nor did it have a
declaration of the total number of students passing
out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in
supporting, limiting or explaining claims made in
advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
142. @ 2011-C.1970 Bhaavya Technical
Institute
MEDIUM: EP Amar Ujala(*), Agra Edition,
Supplement MY City, (English), (13.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
Recommendations – December 2020
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is offering
online coaching and is providing placement
assistance to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that while the advertiser may be providing
placement assistance to their students for getting jobs
in relevant industries, the use of 100% numerical is
not relevant for “100% Placement Assistance” claim.
There cannot be a percentage assigned to any
assistance claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The
use of “100%” as a descriptor in the claim is
misleading by implication and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of students.
The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
143. @ 2011-C.1973 Swastik Vaastu
(Agarbatti Dhoop Stick)
MEDIUM: Sandesh, Vadodara Edition, Main Issue
(Gujarati) (06.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Eliminates Virus
2. Eliminates Mobile, TV, Computer's Radiation
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the Print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting products
like Agarbattii and Dhoop and has claimed that these
products would result into elimination of negativity,
eliminating virus, eliminating mobile, TV, Computer
radiation etc. However, the advertiser did not provide
product specific information such as copy of product
approval license, product label, product composition
details, scientific rationale, nor any technical test data
for the product claims.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims,
“Eliminates Virus” and “Eliminates Mobile, TV and
Computer’s Radiation”, were not substantiated with
clinical evidence of product efficacy. The claims are
misleading by exaggeration and are likely to lead to
grave disappointment in the minds of consumers.
The Print advertisement contravened Chapters I.1,
I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
144. @ 2011-C.1974 TCL Electronics India
(TCL Durable Range)
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat, Panaji Edition, Main Issue
(English) (10.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“40% Energy Saving”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the Print advertisement and noted
that the Advertiser is promoting an air conditioner
product with features such as titan gold evaporator
and condenser, eco-friendly refrigerant, high ambient
cooling and 40 % savings of energy.
The CCC observed that the advertiser did not provide
brochure, user manual of the product, and
comparative technical test reports for the product
benefit claimed. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of any comments or
response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “40% Energy Saving”, was not
substantiated with technical data. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
grave disappointment in the minds of consumers.
The print advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1,
1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
Recommendations – December 2020
145. @ 2011-C.1984 Dr. MPS Group of
Institutions
MEDIUM: EP DainikJagran(*), Agra Edition, Main
Issue,(English), (30.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Opportunity in top MNC’s”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s college is offering
coaching for BBA, BCA, B.com, B,SC, M.Sc.
Biotech and is assuring placement to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the advertiser may be
providing placement opportunity to their students for
getting jobs in top MNC’s, the use of 100%
numerical is not relevant for “100% Placement
Opportunity in top MNC’s” claim. There cannot be a
percentage assigned to any assistance claim such as
40% or 80% assistance. The use of “100%” as a
descriptor in the claim is misleading by implication
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code.
This complaint was UPHELD.
146. @ 2011-C.1985 M/s iScholar Education
Services Pvt Ltd-I30 Learning Centre
MEDIUM: Sambad,Cuttack Edition, Main
Issue,(English), (26.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. India's best coaching platform now at Cuttack
2. Guidance by Odisha’s Best Faculties
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing a coaching
platform at Cuttack for IIT-JEE/ NEET. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “India's best coaching platform now at
Cuttack” was not substantiated with any market
survey data or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s institute versus other similar institutes in
Cuttack, to prove that their coaching platform is
better than all the rest, nor the claim was backed by a
third-party validation.
Claim, “Guidance by Odisha’s Best Faculties” were
not substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
institute versus other similar institutes in Odisha, to
prove that the advertiser’s coaching faculties are
better than the rest. The claim was not backed by a
third-party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The print advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
147. @ 2011-C.1986 IEC (Immigration and
Education Consultant)
MEDIUM: Dainik Jagran(*),Panipat Edition,
Supplement Jagran City,( Hindi), (04.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Best Consultancy in Haryana”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
Recommendations – December 2020
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing immigration
and education consultancy services in Haryana.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Best Consultancy in
Haryana” was not substantiated with any market
survey data or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s consultancy versus other consultants
providing similar services in Haryana, to prove that
the advertisers are the better consultants on
immigration and educations matters than the others.
The claim was not backed by third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
148. @ 2011-C.1987 Amrish Sir’s Institute
MEDIUM: Saurashtra Samachar(*), Bhavnagar
Edition, Main Issue,( English), (25.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Highest Selection in Govt. Job for Last 10 year at
Minimum Fees
2. Best technology across Gujarat with one to one
student interaction & doubt solving
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
Bank (P.O./ Clerk), LIC, SSC (Staff Selection
Committee), Railway Recruitments and many other
Government job exams including CMAT-MBA,
MCA entrance test.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Highest Selection in
Govt. Job for Last 10 year at Minimum Fees” was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data on
year on year basis for the last 10 years as claimed, of
the advertiser’s institute versus other similar
institutes to prove that their institute has given higher
selections in Govt. Job than all the rest, nor the claim
was backed by an independent third party validation.
Claim “Best technology across Gujarat with one to
one student interaction & doubt solving” was not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
coaching institute versus other institutes in Gujarat,
to prove that their institute uses better technology
than all the rest for one to one student interaction &
doubt solving. The claim was not backed by a third
party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The print advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
149. @ 2011-C.1988 IITian's Prashikshan
Kendra Pvt. Ltd.
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Pune Edition, Main
Issue,(English), (06.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Highest Success Ratio in Pune”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
Recommendations – December 2020
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
JEE advanced exams.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Highest Success
Ratio in Pune” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s institute versus
other institutes in Pune to prove that their institute
has a higher success ratio in JEE Advanced 2020
results than all the rest, nor the claim was not backed
by a third party validation. The claim is misleading
by exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
150. @ 2011-C.1989 JRS Tutorials
MEDIUM: EP DainikJagran(*),Varanasi Edition,
Main Issue,( English), (31.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“JRS Tutorials-The Best You Can Get”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing online
coaching for JEE- Advanced (IIT-JEE) 2020.
The CCC, upon careful consideration of the
complaint and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, concluded that the claim, “JRS
Tutorials-The Best You Can Get” was not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
tutorials versus other similar tutorials providing
coaching for JEE, to prove that they are better than
the rest, nor the claim was backed by a third party
validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
151. @ 2011-C.1990 JSS Academy of Higher
Education and Research
MEDIUM: EP Hindu(*),Bangalore Edition, Main
Issue,(English), (12.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is offering
coaching for various courses such as B.Sc, HSMS,
M.Sc, yoga, dental diploma etc. The Advertiser also
mentioned data with respect to the number of
students, faculty/ staff, researchers associated,
publications made and is assuring placement to their
students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that while the advertiser may be providing
placement assistance to their students for getting jobs
in relevant industries, the use of 100% numerical is
not relevant for “100% Placement Assistance” claim.
There cannot be a percentage assigned to any
assistance claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The
use of “100%” as a descriptor in the claim is
misleading by implication and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students.
Recommendations – December 2020
The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
152. @ 2011-C.1991 Khan Study Group (KSG)
MEDIUM: EP Hindu(*),Madurai Edition, Main
Issue,(English), (08.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“GS Highest Marks in India”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement. The CCC
observed that the advertiser’s institute is providing
coaching for IAS exams. Upon careful consideration
of the complaint and in the absence of any response
from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the
claim, “GS Highest Marks in India” was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data in
terms of marks obtained by the students passed
through the advertiser’s coaching classes and other
classes providing coaching for IAS exams in India, to
validate that marks scored by their students in general
studies are highest marks in India. The claim was not
backed by a third party validation. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of students.
The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
153. @ 2011-C.1992 LNCT University
MEDIUM: DainikBhaskar(*), Bhopal Edition, Main
Issue,(English), (01.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Best Campus Placement”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
D. Pharma, B. Pharma and M. Pharma courses.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Best Campus
Placement” was not substantiated with any market
survey data or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s institute versus other similar institutes, to
prove that the advertiser’s campus placement is better
than all the rest, nor the claim was backed by a third
party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
154. @ 2011-C.1995 Impexperts: World of
Import Export
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://idlebrain.com),
(English) (27.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 Organization”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Recommendations – December 2020
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed Digital display advertisement
(http://idlebrain.com), and noted that the Advertiser
is promoting business of Import export.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “No.1 Organization”
was not substantiated with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s Import export organization
with other similar organizations, to prove that they
are in leadership position (No.1). The Claim was also
not substantiated through an independent third party
validation. The source for the claim was not indicated
in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
Public. The Digital display advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
155. @ 2011-C.2017 Beehive Educational
Society-Beehive College of Engineering &
Technology
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan(*),Nainital Edition, Main
Issue,(English), (02.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Join India’s Top Ranked Engineering College”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the Advertiser’s college is providing
courses such as B.Tech, MBA, BAMS and other
courses. They have also claimed to be top ranked
engineering college in India.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Join India’s Top
Ranked Engineering College” was not substantiated
with copy of the award/ ranking certificate, details of
the process for selection for ranking, criteria for
granting the ranks, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
engineering institutes/ colleges in India that were part
of the survey, the outcome of the survey, and details
about the ranking body. The source of the claim was
not mentioned in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
156. @ 2011-C.2018 Deeksha Creations
Society-RNT Group of Colleges
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Jaipur Edition, Main
Issue,(English), (02.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Best Infrastructure
2. Best Labs
3. Best Faculty
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s college is providing
coaching for various courses including BCA, B.Sc,
M.Sc, M.A, B.A.-LL.B, LL.B, LL.M etc. The
advertisement also stated certain special features
provided by the college such as NCC, NSS, Rover
Scouting and sports, facility for online and smart
classes, certificate courses from IIT Bombay, various
scholarships etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
Recommendations – December 2020
CCC concluded that the claims, “Best Infrastructure”,
“Best Labs” and “Best Faculty” were not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
college’s infrastructure, labs and faculty versus other
institute’s infrastructure, labs and faculty, providing
coaching for the courses as claimed, to prove that
they are better than the rest. The claims were also not
backed by a third party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The print advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
157. @ 2011-C.2047 Gitam University
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://keralalotteryresult.net)(English) (20.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The First to conduct entrance tests and admissions
online”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the Digital display advertisement
(http://keralalotteryresult.net) and noted that the
Advertiser’s university is providing coaching for test
series. Upon careful consideration of the complaint,
and in the absence of any response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “The
First to conduct entrance tests and admissions online”
was not substantiated with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s university versus other similar
universities, to prove that they are the first to conduct
entrance tests and admissions online, nor the claim
was backed by a third party validation. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The Digital display advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
158. @ 2011-C.2099 The George Telegraph
Group-George Animatrix School of Animation
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://fotor.com)
(English) (20.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://fotor.com) and observed that the advertiser’s
school is offering graphic design course and is
assuring placement assistance to their students. Upon
careful consideration of the complaint, and in the
absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that while the advertiser may be providing
placement assistance to their students for getting jobs
in relevant industries, the use of 100% numerical is
not relevant for “100% Placement Assistance” claim.
There cannot be a percentage assigned to any
assistance claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The
use of “100%” as a descriptor in the claim is
misleading by implication and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students.
The digital display advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
159. @ 2011-C.2104 Game Institute
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://makeuseof.com)
(English) (22.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
Recommendations – December 2020
1. No.1 Gaming, Animation & VFX
2. Join Best Game Development School
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the Digital display advertisement
(http://makeuseof.com) and noted that the Advertiser
is in the business of Game development coaching.
The CCC observed that the advertiser has claimed to
be No.1 in gaming, animation and VFX and also
provides coaching for game art, designing etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “No.1 Gaming, Animation
& VFX” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s institute and
other similar type of schools or institutes, to prove
that they are in leadership position (No.1) than all the
rest for Gaming, Animation and VFX. The claim was
not validated through an independent third party. The
source for the claim was also not indicated in the
advertisement.
Claim, "Join Best Game Development School” was
not substantiated with market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s school
versus other similar schools, to prove that their
school is better than all the rest for Game
Development, nor through an independent third party
validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The Digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
160. @ 2011-C.2107 Gurusiksha
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://freejobalert.com)
(English) (16.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 Gurusiksha top toutor platform”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://freejobalert.com) and noted that the Advertiser
is promoting their coaching classes claiming to be
`No.1 Gurusiksha top toutor platform’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “No.1 Gurusiksha top
toutor platform” was not substantiated with
comparative data of the advertiser’s coaching classes
and other similar coaching classes, to prove that they
are in leadership position (No.1) for their toutors. The
claim was not validated through an independent third
party. The source for the claim was also not indicated
in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The Digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
161. @ 2011-C.2124 International Institute of
Management, Media & IT (IIMMI)
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://anmolvachan.co.in) (English) (22.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. . The
Recommendations – December 2020
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://anmolvachan.co.in) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is offering coaching for BJMC/
MJMC regular degree courses, and is assuring
placement to their students. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint, and in the absence of
response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “100% Placement” was not substantiated
with authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
placed through their college in relevant industry
sectors on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The digital display
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in
supporting, limiting or explaining claims made in
advertisements, as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
162. @ 2011-C.2125 Inmakes Software
Solutions-Inmakes Learning Hub
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://w3schools.com)
(English) (19.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 Free Software Training”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://w3schools.com) and noted that the Advertiser
is promoting free Software online training with
international certification.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “No.1 Free Software
Training” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s institute and
other software training institutes, to prove that they
are in leadership position (No.1) for providing free
software training. The leadership claim was not
validated through an independent third party. The
source for the claim was also not indicated in the
advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The Digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
163. @ 2011-C.2126 Inmakes Software
Solutions-Inmakes Learning Hub
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://computerhope.com) (English) (19.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://computerhope.com) and observed that the
Recommendations – December 2020
advertiser’s institute is offering coaching for under
graduate and post graduate courses, and is assuring
placement assistance to their students. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that while the advertiser may be providing placement
assistance to their students for getting jobs in relevant
industries, the use of 100% numerical is not relevant
for “100% Placement Assistance” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistance
claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
164. @ 2011-C.2127 I.P.S.R. Group of
Institutions
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://livehindustan.com)(English) (18.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“1st Ranked Institute for Pharmacy”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://livehindustan.com) and observed that the
Advertiser’s institute is providing courses such as
B.Pharma, D.Pharma, M.Pharma etc and is also
claiming to be 1st ranked institute for pharmacy.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “1st Ranked Institute
for Pharmacy”, was not substantiated with copy of
the award certificate, details of the process for award
selection, criteria for granting the award, survey
methodology, parameters considered, questionnaires
used, names of other pharmacy institutes/ colleges
that were part of the survey, the outcome of the
survey, and details about the awarding body. The
source of the claim was not mentioned in the
advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers, especially students. The Digital display
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
165. @ 2011-C.2130 LK Education &
Academy
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://outlookindia.com)(English) (21.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 Travel & Tourism Courses”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://outlookindia.com) and observed that the
Advertiser is offering coaching for Travel and
Tourism Courses, and Diploma in Tourism
Management, and have claimed to be No.1 for their
travel and tourism courses.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “No.1 Travel &
Tourism Courses” was not substantiated with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
academy versus other similar academies, to prove
that they are in leadership position (No.1) for their
travel and tourism courses. The claim was not
validated through an independent third party. The
source for the claim was also not indicated in the
advertisement. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
Recommendations – December 2020
disappointment in the minds of students. The Digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
166. @ 2011-C.2132 Vajirao & Reddy Institute
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://mysmartprice.com)(English) (21.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Join Delhi’s No.1 IAS Coaching”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
and observed that the Advertiser is promoting
Coaching classes for IAS exams.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Join Delhi’s No.1
IAS Coaching” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s institute and
other similar institutes in Delhi, to prove that they are
in leadership position (No.1) than all the rest for IAS
coaching. The claim was not validated through an
independent third party. The source for the claim was
also not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The Digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
167. @ 2011-C.2133 Vellore Institute of
Technology (VIT)
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://ilovepdf.com)
(English) (30.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 Private Institute for Innovation (ARIIA, Gol)”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “ASCI email does not contain
the url in which such an advertisement was found.
They have no association whatsoever with
‘ilovepdf.com’ website nor they engage any such
advertisement arrangement with such a website. As
on this day they have not run any such
advertisement captioned “Vellore Institute of
Technology — No.1 Private Institute Innovation
(ARIIA, GoI). They have been ranked first under the
category of private or self-financed institutions by
ARIIA, Government of India.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided a copy
of the award certificate.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the digital display advertisement
(http://ilovepdf.com) and considered the advertiser’s
response and the award certificate provided by them.
The CCC noted the advertiser’s assertions that Atal
Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements
(ARIIA) Ranking 2019, GOI, has ranked the
advertiser’s institute as first under the category of
private or self financed institutions. However, the
photograph of the award certificate is by itself not
sufficient evidence to support the claim.
Additionally, details on the protocol/process followed
by the awarding/ranking organization is required to
substantiate the claim.
In the absence of claim support data, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “No.1 Private Institute for
Innovation (ARIIA, Gol)”, was not substantiated with
supporting ranking data such as details of the process
for award selection, criteria for granting the award,
survey methodology, parameters considered,
questionnaires used, names of other institutes that
were part of the survey, the outcome of the survey,
and the details of the awarding body. The source for
the claim was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, Clauses 8 i ii(ia) ii(a b c) of the ASCI
Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements as well as Chapters I.1, I.2 and I.4 of
Recommendations – December 2020
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
168. @ 2011-C.2134 Youth Destination IAS
Coaching
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://marugujarat.in)
(English) (13.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. No.1 faculty of teachers
2. India’s best test series program
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://marugujarat.in) and observed that the
advertiser is promoting Coaching class for UPSC and
State PCS exams. The advertiser has also claimed
that they provide `India’s best test series programs’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “No.1 faculty of
teachers” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser and other similar
coaching centres, to prove that their faculty of
teachers are in leadership position (No.1) or through
an independent third party validation. The source for
the claim was not indicated in the advertisement.
Claim, “India’s best test series program” was not
substantiated with market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser versus
other similar coaching centres in India, to prove that
the test series program offered by them is better than
all the rest. The claim was also not backed by an
independent third party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The Digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, I.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
169. @ 2011-C.2136 Agrawal Construction Co
(The Sage Group)
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Bhopal Edition, Main
Issue(English) (02.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Top Real Estate Brand - Times Real Estate Icons
West India
2. Most Promising Group of the year award award by
honorable CM Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan by FICCI
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecom with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did
not avail nor did they submit their written response.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that
no response was received from the advertiser prior to
the prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is a real estate builder
and construction company. They have made the said
claims on the basis of the awards received by them.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claims, “Top Real Estate
Brand - Times Real Estate Icons West India” and
“Most Promising Group of the year award award by
honorable CM Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan by
FICCI”, were not substantiated copy of the awards
certificates, details of the process for awards
selection, criteria for granting the awards, survey
methodology, parameters considered, questionnaires
used, names of other similar real estate companies
that were part of the surveys, the outcome of the
surveys, and the details of the awarding bodies. The
source for the claims was not indicated in the
advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code as well as ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
Recommendations – December 2020
170. @ 2011-C.2137 Atul Latika Hospital and
Sarthak IVF Center (Dr. Latika Agarwal)
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Bareilly Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (04.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Laparoscopy/Hysteroscopy By India's Best Team”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing laparoscopy
and hysteroscopy treatment and is also claiming that
the treatment is done by India’s best team.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim,
“Laparoscopy/Hysteroscopy By India's Best Team”
was not substantiated with any market survey data or
with verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
team executing the treatment versus team of other
hospitals in India providing the said treatment, to
prove that the advertiser’s team is better than all the
rest, nor the claim was backed by a third party
validation. The CCC also noted that medical
treatment is a subjective matter and the Advertiser
should not state that their team is the best in India.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
public. The print advertisement contravened Chapters
1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint
was UPHELD.
171. @ 2011-C.2138 Brajraj Hospital (IVF/
Test Tube Baby Centre)
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Lucknow Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (30.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Highest Success Rate”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing IUI, IVF,
blastocyst culture, hysteroscopy, laparoscopy, laser
hatching, PRP treatments. The CCC also observed
that the advertiser did not provide verifiable
comparative data of the IVF treatments performed
through the advertiser’s hospital which were
successful and other hospitals providing similar
treatments, to validate that their success rate is
highest. The claim was not backed by a third party
validation.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Highest Success
Rate” was not substantiated.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
172. @ 2011-C.2139 Denasia Super Specialty
Dental Hospital
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Bhopal Edition, Main
Issue(Hindi) (29.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Largest Dental Chain of Central India”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
Recommendations – December 2020
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing single siting
root canal, digital smile design and other dental
related treatments.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Largest Dental Chain
of Central India” was not substantiated with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s dental
clinic versus other dental clinics in Central India, to
prove that their dental chain is larger than all the rest,
nor the claim was backed by a third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
173. @ 2011-C.2140 Dietitian Shreya’s Family
Diet Clinic
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Chandigarh Edition,
Supplement Chandigarh Bhaskar (Hindi)
(29.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Excellence in Diabetes Management & Hormonal
Imbalance Award 2019
2. Award Holder Global Women Leadership in
Tricity
3. Awarded North India Women Achiever Award
4. Lifestyle Women Achievers Award
5. No Gyming, No Medicines, No Starvation – Lose
Upto 4 to 5 Kg & 4 to 5 Inches
Additionally, efficacy depicted via the visual of
before and after the treatment appear to be
misleading
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing its customers
with diet plan for weight loss as well as other diet
plans for diabetes, PCOD, and thyroid COVID-19
etc,. and is also awarded with certain titles in the
Healthcare field.
The CCC discussed that the advertiser did not
provide copy of the award certificates, details of the
process for awards selection, criteria for granting the
awards, survey methodologies, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
similar clinics that were part of the surveys, the
outcome of the surveys, and details about the
awarding bodies. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims,
“Excellence in Diabetes Management & Hormonal
Imbalance Award 2019”, “Award Holder Global
Women Leadership in Tricity”, “Awarded North
India Women Achiever Award”, and “Lifestyle
Women Achievers Award”, were not substantiated
with supporting ranking data. The source for the
claims was not mentioned in the advertisement.
Advertiser did not provide details of their treatment
procedure for weight reduction nor did they provide
evidence of their customers who achieved the
claimed results of losing upto 4 to 5 Kgs and 4 to 5
Inches regardless of their physiological status and
lifestyle, without gyming, medicines, and starvation.
In the absence of claim support data, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “No Gyming, No
Medicines, No Starvation – Lose Upto 4 to 5 Kg & 4
to 5 Inches”, was not substantiated with supporting
clinical evidence based on rigorous trial on
statistically significant number of patients
successfully treated at their clinic.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. Also, treatment efficacy being
depicted via images of before and after the treatment
are misleading. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code, and
ASCI Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
174. @ 2011-C.2141 Eternal Multispecialty
Hospital
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Jaipur Edition, Main
Issue (English) (29.09.2020)
Recommendations – December 2020
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“With a Team of Most Proficient and Eminent
Cardiac Specialities in the State and with State of the
Art Technology”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s hospital is providing
complete cardiac care. Upon careful consideration of
the complaint and in the absence of any response
from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the
claim, “With a Team of Most Proficient and Eminent
Cardiac Specialities in the State and with State of the
Art Technology” was not substantiated with any
market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s hospital’s versus other
hospitals providing cardiac treatments in the state
(Rajasthan), to prove that the advertiser’s team is
most proficient and eminent than all the rest. The
claim was also not backed by an independent third
party validation. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
.
175. @ 2011-C.2178 Ducat
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://w3schools.com)
(English) (05.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. With 100% Placement Support
2. Ducat is the Best AI using Python training Institute
in Noida
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. . The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://w3schools.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is providing artificial
intelligence learning through python training and is
also assuring placement support to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that while the advertiser may be providing
placement support to their students for getting jobs in
relevant industries, the use of 100% numerical is not
relevant for “100% Placement Support” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any support claim
such as 40% or 80% support. The use of “100%” as a
descriptor in the claim is misleading by implication
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of students.
Claim, “Ducat is the Best AI using Python training
Institute in Noida” was not substantiated with any
market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s training institute versus other
institutes in Noida, to prove that they are better than
the rest in providing AI learning, nor the claim was
backed by a third party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers including students. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
176. @ 2011-C.2186 IEC Group of Institutions
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://mockbank.com)
(English) (15.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
Recommendations – December 2020
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://mockbank.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is promoting students to start a
career in pharma with their institute and is assuring
placement assistance to their students. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint, and in the absence of
response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that
while the advertiser may be providing placement
assistance to their students for getting jobs in relevant
industries, the use of 100% numerical is not relevant
for “100% Placement Assistance” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistance
claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students.
The digital display advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
177. @ 2011-C.2187 International Institute of
Import & Export Management (IIIEM)
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://123telugu.com)
(English) (24.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"100% Business Support”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://123telugu.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is imparting practical training of
international business and is claiming to provide
100% business support to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the advertiser may be
providing business support to their students in import
export business, however, the use of 100% numerical
is not relevant for “100% business support” claim.
There cannot be a percentage assigned to any support
claim such as 40% or 80% support. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers including
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
178. @ 2011-C.2188 IIMT Group of Colleges
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://tutorialspoint.com) (English) (21.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"100% Placement Assistant (Assistance)”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://tutorialspoint.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s college is assuring placement assistant to
their students. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that while the
advertiser may be providing placement assistant to
their students for getting jobs in relevant industries,
the use of 100% numerical is not relevant for “100%
Placement Assistant (Assistance)” claim. There
Recommendations – December 2020
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistant
claim such as 40% or 80% assistant. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
FSSAI Complaints:
179. @ 2010-C.1652 Fazlani Exports Pvt. Ltd
– Fazlani Foods (Chick Peas Curry with Basmati
Rice)
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://instructables.com), (English) (01.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Totally Natural, No Preservatives and Gluten Free”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response in which they
commented on ASCI’s jurisdiction.
Advertiser subsequently requested for an extension of
15 days to submit their detailed response to the
objections raised in the complaint. The deadlines
stipulated by Consumer Complaints Council (CCC)
procedure exist keeping in mind the immediate and
widespread impact that advertisements have on the
public. Consequently, any action which is needed to
be taken with respect to the same is required to be
prompt and urgent. It is for this purpose that the
deadlines, as stipulated, are set for
advertisers/broadcasters etc. and the CCC itself
makes it a priority to deal with every complaint
before it as expeditiously as possible. However, as a
special gesture, the advertiser was granted an
extension of additional five business days to respond.
Advertiser stated that “The composition of products
used by them is itself a proof that the product is
natural and gluten free. They use retort technology
which helps to attain a longer shelf life of the product
without adding any preservatives.”
Advertiser in their response also shared few website
links that define the retort process
https://www.foodbuddies.in/retort-technology-in-
food-processing-
industry/#:~:text=What%20is%20Retorting%3F,steri
lization%20by%20application%20of%20heat,
https://www.retorts.com/white-
papers/category/retort-processes/
As claim support data, the advertiser provided a copy
of the Product packaging, License copy from FSSAI,
and Composition details of the product available on
the packaging.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://instructables.com) and considered the
advertiser’s response. The CCC observed that the
ingredients list on the product packaging does not
indicate that the food product (Chick Peas Curry with
Basmati Rice) has preservatives or gluten, and it also
justifies the product to be natural. The advertiser’s
assertion that retort technology is used to attain a
longer shelf life of the product without adding any
preservatives was acceptable by the CCC.
Based on the advertiser’s response with the
supporting data provided, the CCC did not consider
the claim, “Totally Natural, No Preservatives and
Gluten Free” to be objectionable. The CCC
concluded that the digital display advertisement is not
in contravention of Chapter I of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was NOT UPHELD.
180. @ 2011-C.1865 K. M. Hing Udyog (KM
Hing & Masale)
MEDIUM: News18(*) Uttar Pradesh Uttarakhand
(Hindi) (04.09.2020) (10 Secs) (18:22:03)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. No.1 Hing and Masalas
2. First Choice of Every Household
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the TVC and observed that the
advertiser is promoting products like premium
quality Asafoetida and other various types of packed
garam masalas / spices.
Recommendations – December 2020
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response was received from the
Advertiser to substantiate both claims, it concluded
that the claims, “No.1 Hing and Masalas” and was
not substantiated with verifiable comparative data of
the advertiser’s products and other manufacturers of
Hing and Masala brands, to prove that they are in
leadership position (No.1), or through an independent
third party validation. The source for the claim was
not indicated in the advertisement.
Claim, “First Choice of Every Household”, was not
substantiated with market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
products and other manufacturers of Hing and Masala
brands, to prove that their products are given the first
choice than the others, nor the claim was backed by
an independent third party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The TVC contravened Chapters
1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
181. @ 2011-C.1884 Jay Shree Tea &
Industries Ltd
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://moneycontrol.com), National Edition
(English) (13.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The World’s Best Loose Leaf Darjeeling Tea”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://moneycontrol.com) and observed that the
advertiser is into loose tea leaves business.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “The World’s Best
Loose Leaf Darjeeling Tea” was not substantiated
with any market survey data or with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s product versus
other manufacturers of loose leaf tea brands
worldwide, to prove that they are better than the rest,
nor the claim was backed by a third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The digital display advertisement
contravened the Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
182. @ 2011-C.1911 Kolhapur Zilla Sahakari
Dudh Utpadak Sangh Ltd - Gokul Range of
Products
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat, Kolhapur Edition,
Supplement Swayampoorna Kolhapur (Marathi)
(14.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Experience the Best Milk”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting milk and
other dairy products. Upon careful consideration of
the complaint, and in the absence of response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Experience the Best Milk” was not substantiated
with market survey data or with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s milk brand
versus other milk brands, to prove that their product
is better than all the rest, nor the claim was backed by
a third party validation. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The print
advertisement contravened the Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and
1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
183. @ 2011-C.1959 Mishkat Agro Industries
Pvt Ltd (Range of Products)
Recommendations – December 2020
MEDIUM: Divya Bhaskar(*), Vadodara Edition,
Main Issue (Gujarati) (15.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“We Select the Best Grains from Crops of Farmers
all over the Country”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser offers wide range of
specialty flour such as the Whole Wheat Flour,
milled refined and bleached wheat flour (Maida),
Semolina (Rava/Sooji), Besan (Gram Flour), Snacks,
Fryums and other ready to eat delicacies under the
brand name Energetic.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “We Select the Best
Grains from Crops of Farmers all over the Country”
was not substantiated with market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
product versus other similar range of products in the
country, to prove that their range of products is made
of better grains than all the rest. The claim was also
not backed by a third-party validation. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened the
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
184. @ 2011-C.1976 Amir Chicken
MEDIUM: Pudhari, Pune Edition, Supplement My
Pune (Marathi) (20.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. No.1
2. Only Successful Company in India in Chicken
Retail Business
3. India's Largest Chicken Retailer
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser is into Chicken retailing business.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser,
concluded that the claims, “No.1”, “Only Successful
Company in India in Chicken Retail Business”, and
“India's Largest Chicken Retailer” were not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s company and other similar chicken
retailers in India, to prove that they are in leadership
position (No.1), only successful company, and larger
than all the others. The claims were not backed by an
independent third-party validation. The source for the
claims, “No.1” and “India's Largest Chicken
Retailer” was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of the consumers. The Print advertisement
contravened the Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
185. @ 2011-C.1977 STL Pharma Pvt. Ltd
(360 Degree Organic) – Morning Mantra
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat, Panaji Edition, Main Issue
(Marathi) (29.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. For Boosting Immunity Power
2. To Remove Heart Blockage
3. Reducing Cholesterol
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
Recommendations – December 2020
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting a food
product - `Morning Mantra’ which claims to boost
immunity power, removes heart blockages, and
reduces cholesterol. However, the advertiser did not
provide any specific information for the product such
as copy of Product approval license, product label,
and Product composition details nor any technical
rationale for the product claims.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claims, “For Boosting Immunity
Power”, “To Remove Heart Blockage” and
“Reducing Cholesterol” were not substantiated with
clinical evidence of product efficacy. The CCC was
of the view that the advertiser is promoting a food
product claiming benefits of therapeutic nature,
which are misleading by exaggeration and exploit’s
consumers’ lack of knowledge, and are likely to lead
to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened the
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
186. @ 2011-C.1996 OZiva - Oziva Plant
Based Collagen Builder
MEDIUM: Digital Video, (http://youtube.com),
(English) (21.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India’s First Plant Based Collagen (Voice Over)”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the Digital video advertisement and
noted that the Advertiser is promoting a product
which is plant based collagen builder with features to
assist in skin repairing and regeneration.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the voice over claim, “India’s
First Plant Based Collagen” was not substantiated
with verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
product versus other similar type of products in India,
to prove that their product is first plant based
collagen builder, nor the claim was backed by a third
party validation. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The
Digital video advertisement contravened Chapters
1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint
was UPHELD.
187. @ 2011-C.2003 Nutritionalab Pvt. Ltd.
(Wellbeing Nutrition)-Daily Greens
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://latimes.com),
National Edition (English) (10.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India’s 1st Organic Whole Food Multivitamin”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the Digital display advertisement
(http://latimes.com) and noted that the Advertiser is
promoting a product which is a multivitamin tablet
claimed to be `India’s first organic whole
multivitamin’. The advertisement also stated that the
tablet includes nutrition from thirty nine fruits and
vegetables.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “India’s 1st Organic
Whole Food Multivitamin” was not substantiated
with verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
product versus other similar type of products in India,
to prove that their product is India’s first Organic
Recommendations – December 2020
Whole Food Multivitamin, nor the claim was backed
by a third party validation. The claim is misleading
by exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The
Digital display advertisement contravened Chapters
1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint
was UPHELD.
188. @ 2011-C.2119 Butterfly Ayurveda Pvt
Ltd – Heart Strong Infusion
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://coingecko.com)
National Edition, (English) (08.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Keep your Heart Strong and Healthy with Heart
Strong Infusion”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the Digital display advertisement
(http://coingecko.com), and observed that the
advertiser is promoting a food product - `Heart
Strong Infusion’ claiming that it keeps the heart
strong and healthy. The CCC observed that the
advertiser did not provide product specific
information such as copy of product approval license,
product label, and product composition details, nor
any scientific or technical rationale for the product
claim.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “Keep
your Heart Strong and Healthy with Heart Strong
Infusion”, was not substantiated with clinical
evidence of product efficacy. The claim is
misleading by implication and is likely to lead to
grave disappointment in the minds of consumers.
The Digital display advertisement contravened
Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
189. @ 2011-C.2120 Sushrut Ayurved
Industries (Sugar Knocker)
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://mail.com)
(English) (19.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Treat the root cause not the symptoms
2. Sugar Knocker
Objection:
The above claim and the name of the product “Sugar
Knocker” imply that the product is meant to cure
diabetes
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://mail.com) and noted that the advertiser is
promoting a food product – Sugar Knocker claiming
that their product would regulate blood sugar
naturally. The CCC observed that the advertiser did
not provide product specific information such as copy
of product approval license, product label, and
product composition details, nor any scientific
rationale for the product claims.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims, “Treat
the root cause not the symptoms” and “Sugar
Knocker”, were not substantiated with clinical
evidence of product efficacy. The claim, “Treat the
root cause not the symptoms” is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to grave
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The
claim / product name `Sugar Knocker’ is misleading
by implication that the product is meant to cure
diabetes. The Digital display advertisement
contravened Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
Recommendations – December 2020
AYUSH Complaints:
190. @ 2011-C.1958 Gopal Ayurvedic Center –
Gopal Skin Care Kit
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Chandigarh Edition,
Supplement Chandigarh Bhaskar (English)
(15.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Prevents Anti-Aging, Stretch Marks”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the Print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting its skin care
kit by claiming to prevent anti-aging and stretch
marks. The CCC observed that the advertiser did not
provide product specific information such as copy of
product approval license, product label, and product
composition details.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“prevent anti-aging and stretch marks” was not
substantiated with any supporting clinical evidence of
product efficacy. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers.
The Print advertisement contravened Chapters I.1,
I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
191. @ 2011-C.1975 Unique Permanent Hair
Loss Powder
MEDIUM: EP Amar Ujala(*), Allahabad Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (26.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Freedom from Hair through Powder Permanently”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the Print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser is promoting permanent hair loss
powder and claimed to achieve life time removal of
unwanted hair. The CCC observed that the advertiser
did not provide product specific information such as
copy of product approval license, product label, and
product composition details.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Freedom from Hair through Powder Permanently”
was not substantiated with any supporting clinical
evidence of product efficacy. The claim is misleading
by exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers.
The Print advertisement contravened Chapters I.1,
I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
192. @ 2011-C.2000 Venkateswara Ayurveda
Nilayam Ltd – Vandige
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://greatandhra.com), National Edition (English)
(12.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Protects from Liver Disorder
2. Contained Pure Gold
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
Recommendations – December 2020
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://greatandhra.com) and observed that advertiser
has claimed that their product - Vandige tablets
improves appetite, regulates bowel conditions, is
remedy for indigestion and protects from liver
disorder and is natural with zero side effects.
The CCC observed that the advertiser did not provide
product specific information such as copy of product
approval license, product label, and product
composition details.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Protects from liver disorder” was not substantiated
with any supporting clinical evidence of product
efficacy. Claim, “Contained Pure Gold”, was not
substantiated with any evidence of the ingredients
present in the product.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The digital display
advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
193. @ 2010-C.2002 Sat Kartar Shopping Pvt.
Ltd (Ayurvedic Pack for Piles, Fistula, Fissures)
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://leaf.tv), National
Edition (Hindi + English) (14.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Gets Rid of Piles in 4 Days”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://leaf.tv) and noted that the advertiser is
promoting its Ayurvedic pack by claiming to provide
guaranteed effect to cure Piles, Fistula and Fissures.
The CCC observed that the advertiser did not provide
product specific information such as copy of product
approval license, product label, product composition
details, and evidence of the ingredients present in the
product.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Gets Rid of Piles in 4
Days” was not substantiated with product efficacy
data. The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The digital display
advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
194. @ 2010-C.2118 Climic Health Pvt. Ltd
(Curveda Range of Products)
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://storypick.com)
(English) (23.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Award-winning Veg Collagen”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response through their
Advocates. Advocate on behalf of the advertiser
provided a copy of the award certificate and a report
of their client. Advocate further assured to modify or
to withdraw the advertisement based on the CCC
recommendation.
As this response was inadequate, ASCI Secretariat
requested the advocate / advertiser to provide the
details of the survey methodology with the outcome
of the survey, and any financial transaction involved
for participating and/or receiving such award.
In response to ASCI query, the advocate responded
that “this award was given by YOUR STORY and
government of India ministry of MSME so there lies
question for any financial transaction involved.
Additionally there was a online questionnaire and a
selection criteria was laid down by the organisers.
There were more than 2000 applicants of which 41
MSME’s were awarded in 17 different sectors.”
Advocate in their response referred to a website link
for the award details -
Recommendations – December 2020
https://www.google.co.in/amp/s/yourstory.com/smbst
ory/msme-brands-of-india-awards-giriraj-singh/amp
Advocate further advised the ASCI Secretariat to
approach directly the organising committee for
details of survey methodology.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the Digital Display advertisement
(http://storypick.com) and considered the advocate’s
response. The CCC observed that the advertiser has
made the said claim on the basis of the award granted
to them by `YourStory’ in association with MSME –
Development Institute (as mentioned in the
certificate) in February 2019. This was a certificate
of recognition presented to the advertiser in Pharma
(Micro Enterprises) category. However, the CCC
noted that the advertiser did not provide the basis of
the award or the survey methodology followed to
obtain this information such as the details of the
process as to how the selection for the award was
done, details of the criteria for granting the award,
parameters considered, questio2nnaires used, names
of other institutes / health clinics that were part of the
survey, the outcome of the survey, and the details
about the awarding body. The source for the claim
was not indicated in the advertisement.
Advertiser also did not provide proof of any financial
transaction involved for any direct or indirect
payment made by the advertiser to the Institution
who had granted the said award.
Based on these observations, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “Award-winning Veg Collagen”, was
inadequately substantiated and is misleading by
exaggeration. The Digital Display advertisement
contravened Clauses 7 and 8 i ii(ia) ii(a b c) of the
ASCI Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements as well as Chapters I.1, I.2 and I.4 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
195. @ 2010-C.2121 Welex Laboratories
Private Limited (Ayurin Plus)
MEDIUM: Digital Display, (http://health.raftaar.in)
(English) (21.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Ayurin Plus Strengthen and Restore Kidney
Functioning”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://health.raftaar.in) and observed that the
advertiser is promoting Ayurin capsule for UTI and
Kidney problems. However, the advertiser did not
provide any product specific information such as
copy of product approval license, product label, and
product composition details, and evidence of
ingredients present in the product.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Ayurin Plus Strengthen and Restore Kidney
Functioning” was not substantiated with any
supporting clinical evidence of product efficacy. The
claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely to
lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers particularly patients suffering from issues
relating to Kidney function or kidney disorder.
The digital display advertisement contravened
Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
2012-CCC.24
Complaints received directly by ASCI on OCMS /
contact@ascionline.org
1. OC, $ 2011-C.1776 Berger Paints India
Ltd.(*) (Berger Paints)
MEDIUM: Star Sports 1 HD(*) , Republic TV(*)
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlJpnRGOF-Q )
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Number of complaints:2
Claims objected to:
1. Anti Bacteria approved by Indian medical
Association
2. Protects from Virus - Visuals contain image of
Covid-19 virus.
3. Reduces SOxNOx Gases
Complaint:
”Karenna Kapoor stars in this ad, where they claim
their paint has anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-
pollution properties. It seems patently false to claim
Recommendations – December 2020
that a paint protects consumers against bacteria,
viruses and pollution.”
Complaint from CERC:
1. Berger Silk Breathe Easy is glamourous and
protects the house from bacteria, virus and
pollution.
2. Anti-bacteria approved by Indian Medical
Association
3. Reduces SOx NOX gases
Our objections:
1. Please substantiate all above claims with
independent claim support data. The claim
support data should not be internal or based on
studies commissioned by Berger Paints India
Limited.
2. The visual shows that it is effective against virus
that resemble COVID virus. This needs
substantiation. Even if it can protect against
COVID 19, it might only kill virus that come in
contact with walls.
3. What about the virus that travel in air? In a
situation of world pandemic, making claims like
this will create panic buying of the product in the
hope of being safe from corona infection.
4. Does the study establish the efficacy of the paint
being anti-bacterial on being exposed to different
environmental conditions in a typical home
situation? (as per the disclaimer, the antibacterial
action has been tested under standard test
conditions)
5. How long will the paint be effective against
COVID-19?
6. Kareena Kapoor features in the advertisement.
Consumer Protection Act 2019 states that an
endorser shall not be liable to a penalty by
CCPA if the endorsing celebrity has exercised
due diligence to verify the veracity of the claims
made in the advertisement regarding the product
or service endorsed by him/her. Can the
advertiser show evidence that Kareena Kapoor
has done due diligence and that she confirms all
the claims made in the advertisement?
According to us, the advertisement contravenes
Chapter 1.1 and 1.4 of ASCI Codes.
Action to be taken: We propose that the
advertisement should be immediately withdrawn.
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered
an opportunity to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat
to seek further guidance, which they availed and
replied seeking for IR of the complaint.
Advertiser was informed by the ASCI Secretariat that
for the complaint to be resolved under IR, they would
be required to withdraw the said claims across all
media. Advertiser did not opt for IR but submitted
their detailed response within the given timelines.
Advertiser in their response stated that “the product
had been honed through continuous efforts to protect
against different strains of bacteria, viruses and
pollution and it so happens that a surface coated with
Silk Breathe Easy is also found to be effective against
the SARS COVID 19 virus. They do not engage in
claims which are not backed by scientific results.
These were carried out by independent and
accredited laboratories and they show that use of Silk
Breathe Easy on walls would help on the fronts as
claimed by Berger. They have not mentioned that
Silk Breathe Easy kills viruses which do not come
into contact with the surface. It would be
scientifically impossible.
Like all sanitisers or disinfectants, it protects the
surface on which it is applied.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided – (1)
Copy of test results of SOx & NOx absorption by
Equinox Labs, (2) Copy of test results of Shanghai
Environmental Monitoring Technical & Equipment
Company, Shanghai, (3) Copy of anti-bacterial test
reports from Ross Life Science, (4) Copy of anti-
bacterial test reports from Biotech Testing Services,
(5) Copy of anti-Covid-19 results from Rajiv Gandhi
Centre for Biotechnology.
The complaint and the advertiser’s response with the
claim support data was referred to the independent
technical expert of ASCI. The expert opinion was
shared with the advertiser for making any additional
submissions. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for IR at this stage based on the expert
opinion. The advertiser did not opt for an IR but
sought for a meeting with the technical expert, which
was arranged by the ASCI Secretariat through Zoom
video conference.
Post meeting with the ASCI Secretariat and the
technical expert, the advertiser submitted additional
data – (1) Test results of SOx & NOx breakdown,
(2) Test results of Formaldehyde breakdown, (3)
Test Reports - Anti-Bacterial efficacy, (4) IMA
Declaration, (5) Test Reports - Anti- Viral efficacy,
(6) Test Reports - Anti-SARS CoV-2 efficacy, (7)
Declaration of Due Diligence from Celebrity, (8)
DSIR Certification of Berger Research &
Development Facility, (9) Complaints received by
ASCI
Recommendations – December 2020
Based on the advertiser’s additional response, the
technical expert submitted his final opinion for the
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) to consider.
The CCC viewed the TVC and the YouTube
advertisement
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlJpnRGOF-Q)
and considered the advertiser’s response as well as
the opinion of the Technical expert presented at the
meeting.
The CCC observed the additional field test data of
Sulphur Oxides (SOx) and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
test results of SOx & NOx absorption, over different
time intervals, and considered this data as adequate
for the claim substantiation.
The CCC noted that the test data from external
laboratory for anti-bacterial test by Ross Life
Sciences Pvt Ltd., which is said to be a GLP certified
& ISO/IEC17025:2005 accredited laboratory, have
found >99.9% anti-bacterial activity of Silk Breathe
Easy against Staphylococcus aureus & Escherichia
coli. The data report from Biotech Testing Services,
which is reported to be a NABL accredited
laboratory, have found >99% anti-bacterial activity of
Silk Breathe Easy against 29 disease causing
bacterial strains associated with common house hold,
hospital and food industries, by JIS Z 2801: 2010
Test Method.
Based on this assessment, the CCC was of the view
that while the claims, “Berger Silk Breathe Easy is
glamourous and protects the house from bacteria,
virus and pollution”, “Anti-bacteria approved by
Indian Medical Association”, and “Reduces SOx
NOX gases”, are technically correct under standard
test conditions, the situation depicted in the
advertisement with the protagonist (Kareena Kapoor
Khan) saying “…..aur mere ghar ko bhi protect
karta hai bacteria virus aur pollution se”, the
consumer may be misled that the product protects the
people living inside the house and keeps them safe.
The CCC concluded that the advertisement is
misleading by implication and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The TVC and the YouTube
advertisement contravened Chapters I.4 and I.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
For the objection raised against the celebrity
endorsing the product, the CCC observed that the
advertiser has submitted evidence that the celebrity
(Kareena Kapoor Khan) has done due diligence and
that she confirms all the claims made in the
advertisement. This complaint was NOT
UPHELD.
1. #, OC 2011-C.2197 Matrimony.com Ltd(*)
(Bharat Matrimony)
MEDIUM: Website Advertisement
YouTube(*)
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXTsyeAx0CY,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6E7_Gifs08w,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_crbzF_osE,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vap7hQPEROU)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The No. 1 & Most Trusted Matrimony Service for
Indians”
Complaint:
“1. We, People Interactive (I) Pvt. Ltd. are the
owners and operators of the internet-based
business www.shaadi.com with nearly 25 years of
experience in the matchmaking business. The present
complaint is being filed by us against the Advertiser
and the claims being made by the Advertiser with
respect to its Brand - ‘Bharat Matrimony’, through
various mediums viz. (i) YouTube Channel and (ii)
Website (https://www.matrimony.com,
2.The Advertiser’s Claim - The No. 1 & Most
Trusted Matrimony Service for Indians (“Claim”)
and the Advertisements which have been in
circulation since April, 2018 and the claims on its
website(s) are in violation of the ASCI Code. The
links to the Advertisements are enclosed hereto
as Annexure No.1.
3. We draw your attention to the following
provisions of the ASCI code which are blatantly and
knowingly being violated by the impugned
Advertisements and Claim being made by the
Advertiser:
Provisions under ASCI Code: ● Awards/Rankings should not be used as an
alternative for consumer or scientific research or
testing which is required to substantiate a superiority
claim about the effective use or performance of
products or services. Advertisements that refer to
awards/rankings should indicate clearly the name of
the organisation that has provided the award/ranking
and the month and year in which the award/ranking
was pronounced. The validity of the award/ranking
so used to substantiate a claim should be of a period
preceding the advertisement by not more than 12
months.
● Advertisement shall neither distort facts nor
mislead the consumer by means of implications or
omissions. Advertisements shall not contain
Recommendations – December 2020
statements or visual presentation which directly or by
implication or by omission or by ambiguity or by
exaggeration are likely to mislead the consumer
about the product advertised or the advertiser or
about any other product or advertiser.
● Advertisement shall not be framed as to abuse the
trust of consumers or exploit their lack of experience
or knowledge. No advertisement shall be permitted to
contain any claim so exaggerated as to lead to grave
or widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers.
4. Upon a consideration of the aforesaid provisions
of the ASCI Code, it becomes clear that in order to
sustain a claim relating to an award/ranking of a
product/service, consumer or scientific research is to
be undertaken. Further, an advertisement should
clearly indicate the name of the organization that has
provided the award/ranking and the year in which it
was pronounced. The ASCI Code further goes on to
clarify that the validity of the award/ranking should
be of a period preceding the advertisement by not
more than 12 months.
5. With reference to the impugned
Advertisements and the Claim, we would like to
submit as under:
a. A perusal of the various impugned
Advertisements circulating on the YouTube channel
of the Advertiser indicates that its Claim is that it is
‘The No. 1 & Most Trusted Matrimony Service for
Indians’. (“Claim”). Further, the website of the
Advertiser also depicts this Claim of the Advertiser
which is evidenced by the screenshots of the website
of the Advertiser, enclosed hereto as Annexure No.2.
It is pertinent to note that the Advertiser has not
provided any details to substantiate the Claim in the
impugned Advertisements including but not limited
to the organization which has awarded the aforesaid
ranking to the Advertiser and the year in which such
ranking was awarded. Hence, such Claim is baseless
and made with an intention to mislead the general
public.
b. In addition to the aforesaid, a perusal of the
purported awards and accolades and website of
the Advertiser, provided
at https://www.matrimony.com/awards.php indica
tes that there are no valid awards/rankings
granted to the Advertiser which would
substantiate the Claim, as many of the supposed
awards are of a period preceding the Advertisements
by more than 12 months. In fact, a perusal of the
‘About Us’ section of the website provided
at https://www.matrimony.com/aboutus.php indicates
that the basis for the Claim that the Advertiser is
allegedly the ‘Most Trusted Matrimony Brand’ is a
Brand Trust Report from the year 2014, which
precedes the Advertisements in question by more
than 5 years.
c. Further, we have also analyzed the google trend
data relating to search volumes using the keywords
“shaadi.com” which is our website as compared with
“Bharat Matrimony’ and its various offshoots in
several states, and it is clear from this data
that shaadi.com has a higher search volume in every
state. The particulars of the google trend data is
enclosed hereto as AnnexureNo.3.
6. We therefore submit that it is evident from the
aforesaid that the Claim of the Advertiser is not
supported by any evidence and/or data and/or any
consumer or scientific research. Further, by way of
the impugned Advertisements, the Advertiser is
attempting to distort facts and mislead the consumer
by omitting to substantiate the Claim and leading
them to believe its Claim that it is in fact the No.1 &
Most Trusted Matrimony Service, which Claim is
false to the knowledge of the Advertiser itself.
Further, the Advertiser is attempting to abuse the
trust of consumers by making exaggerated claims
about its products/services.”
Website Link: https://www.matrimony.com
YouTube(*): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX
TsyeAx0CY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6E7_Gifs08w
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_crbzF_osE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vap7hQPEROU
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered
an opportunity to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat
to seek further guidance, which they did not avail but
replied requesting for an extension of time to submit
their detailed response.
The deadlines stipulated by Consumer Complaints
Council (CCC) procedure exist keeping in mind the
immediate and widespread impact that
advertisements have on the public. Consequently, any
action which is needed to be taken with respect to the
same is required to be prompt and urgent. It is for this
purpose that the deadlines, as stipulated, are set for
advertisers/broadcasters etc. and the CCC itself
makes it a priority to deal with every complaint
Recommendations – December 2020
before it as expeditiously as possible. However, as a
special gesture, the advertiser was granted an
extension of additional two business days to respond.
Advertiser in their response stated that “Bharat
Matrimony is India’s leading provider of online
matchmaking services to users in India
complemented by on-the-ground network of 130+
retail centres in India. They have also provided
Google trends report on Individual domain basis
which clearly establishes the No.1 position of Bharat
Matrimony which comprises network of 15 portals.
In the Google report of Keyword search, the average
search numbers of Bharat Matrimony is 3,68,000
(numbers) as compared to that of Shaadi which is
2,46,000 (numbers). Further the keyword average
search of individual searches also prove that they are
No.1. The Comparison between Bharat Matrimony
and Shaadi at an Pan India basis for Google
Keywords search shows Average Monthly search of
Google for Bharat Matrimony is 3,68,000 numbers
while that of Shaadi shows it as 2,46,000
numbers. The Google Key word volume document
for key word searches for regional domains under
Bharat Matrimony as compared with Shaadi regional
domains also shows that the regional domains of
Bharat Matrimony on top.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided – (1)
Google Trends report, (2) Google Review report, (3)
Google Keyword search report for Bharat Matrimony
and its network of 15 portals, (4) Google Search
Volume PPT- Dec 7, 2020, (5) Google Business
review - Aug 2020 to Dec 7, 2020, (6) Bharat
Matrimony - Query trends- Dec 7, 2020, (7)
Annexure to ASCI - Links to Google Trends and
Adwords URL - Dec 7, 2020.
Advertiser in their response shared website links for
articles in the press about Bharat Matrimony, and
also provided the comparative figures for Google
keyword search on an individual domain basis.
As this data being inadequate as claim support data,
ASCI Secretariat requested the advertiser to provide
market research data, or comparative studies to
support the claim. There was no response received
from the advertiser.
The CCC viewed the Website advertisement
(https://www.matrimony.com) and YouTube
advertisements
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXTsyeAx0CY)
, (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6E7_Gifs08w),
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_crbzF_osE),
and
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vap7hQPEROU
) and considered the advertiser’s response and the
supporting data provided by them.
The CCC was of the view that while there are other
search engines, Google is probably the more popular
one and is most likely to be used by the users
worldwide as a preferred search engine. In digital
marketing, the evaluation of websites, blogs is more
dependent on the number of searches and traffic on
such websites, the data of which is also provided
through Google reports. However, Google trends is
not a third party platform and it provides research
data only for the searches that are made through
Google.
The CCC felt that the Google analytic data is by itself
not sufficient evidence to support the claim, and did
not consider this data as acceptable as it is only
search data which does not make the advertiser’s
brand/service as No.1 and most trusted. The
advertiser can claim themselves to be `No.1 searched
brand’ but not `No.1 and most trusted’. The revenue
figures and the profit figures quoted in the
advertiser’s response comparing themselves with that
of the complainant was not considered relevant, as
according to the CCC, even with less number of
searches the complainant or any other competitor
could have a higher revenue. For claiming to be
No.1, the volume of search interest does not suffice,
instead the number of individuals registered with the
website should be given weightage.
Furthermore, the CCC was of the opinion that “trust”
is a subjective term and the claim “most trusted” is
required to be substantiated by an independent third
party consumer survey data. The parameter they have
used to claim No.1 and most trusted does not justify
the claim made and is not recognised for a claim of
this nature.
Based on these observations, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “The No. 1 & Most Trusted Matrimony
Service for Indians”, was inadequately substantiated
with verifiable comparative data with market sales
data, volume and value share data, or any third party
validation. The claim is misleading by exaggeration
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of consumers. The source for the claim
was not indicated in the advertisements. The Website
advertisement and the YouTube advertisements
contravened Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
2. #, OC 2011-C.2213 Matrimony.com Ltd (*)
(Bengalimatrimony.com)
MEDIUM: Website Advertisements
YouTube (*)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TNTYOSZBOg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tobDFIyCRNQ
Recommendations – December 2020
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXLSZ0Amer0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDD62TbVOPI
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The No. 1 & Most Trusted Matrimony Service for
Bengalis”
Complaint:
CLAIM CHALLENGED: The Advertiser’s Claim -
The No. 1 & Most Trusted Matrimony Service for
Bengalis (“Claim”) and the Advertisements which
have been in circulation since October 2018 and
the claims on its website(s) are in violation of the
following ASCI Codes.
We draw your attention to the following provisions
of the ASCI code which are blatantly and knowingly
being violated by the impugned Advertisements and
Claim being made by the Advertiser:
ASCI CODE PROVISIONS VIOLATED:
● Awards/Rankings should not be used as an
alternative for consumer or scientific research or
testing which is required to substantiate a
superiority claim about the effective use or
performance of products or services.
Advertisements that refer to awards/rankings
should indicate clearly the name of the
organisation that has provided the award/ranking
and the month and year in which the
award/ranking was pronounced. The validity of
the award/ranking so used to substantiate a claim
should be of a period preceding the
advertisement by not more than 12 months.
● Advertisement shall neither distort facts nor
mislead the consumer by means of implications
or omissions. Advertisements shall not contain
statements or visual presentation which directly
or by implication or by omission or by ambiguity
or by exaggeration are likely to mislead the
consumer about the product advertised or the
advertiser or about any other product or
advertiser.
● Advertisement shall not be framed as to abuse
the trust of consumers or exploit their lack of
experience or knowledge. No advertisement shall
be permitted to contain any claim so exaggerated
as to lead to grave or widespread disappointment
in the minds of consumers.
THE GROUNDS OF CHALLENGE are, in order to
sustain a claim relating to an award/ranking of a
product/service, consumer or scientific research is to
be undertaken. Further, an advertisement should
clearly indicate the name of the organization that has
provided the award/ranking and the year in which it
was pronounced. The ASCI Code further goes on to
clarify that the validity of the award/ranking should
be of a period preceding the advertisement by not
more than 12 months.
MEDIUM OF ADVERTISEMENTS:
Advertisements circulating on the YouTube channel
of the Advertiser indicates that its Claim is that it is
‘The No. 1 & Most Trusted Matrimony Service for
Bengalis’. Further, the website of the Advertiser also
depicts this Claim of the Advertiser.
YouTube links of the advertisements:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TNTYOSZBOg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tobDFIyCRNQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXLSZ0Amer0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDD62TbVOPI
Website link of the Advertiser:
https://www.bengalimatrimony.com/
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered
an opportunity to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat
to seek further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser in their response stated that “They are
now providing Google trends report comparing all
the possible usage of keywords for West Bengal,
India and Worldwide from 8 Dec 2019 to 16 August
2020 and Google keyword search Volume report
comparing all the possible combination of keywords
for West Bengal, India and all locations i.e.
worldwide from Nov 2019 to Oct 2020.
They have provided Google keyword search Volume
report using various combination of keywords which
clearly establishes the No.1 position of Bengali
Matrimony. Attached the Google trends comparison
for all the possible usage of keywords Bengali
Matrimony and Bengali Shaadi for the period 8th
Dec 2019 to 16th August 2020 which clearly shows
that Bengali Matrimony is ranked higher and popular
than Bengali Shaadi.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided – (1)
Google Trends screen shots - Bengali matrimony-
Dec 10, 2020, (2) Bengali Matrimony vs Bengali
Shaadi - Keyword Search Volume- Dec 10, 2020
As this data being inadequate as claim support data,
ASCI Secretariat requested the advertiser to provide
market research data, or comparative studies to
support the claim. Advertiser requested for an
Recommendations – December 2020
extension to submit this data. The deadlines
stipulated by Consumer Complaints Council (CCC)
procedure exist keeping in mind the immediate and
widespread impact that advertisements have on the
public. Consequently, any action which is needed to
be taken with respect to the same is required to be
prompt and urgent. It is for this purpose that the
deadlines, as stipulated, are set for
advertisers/broadcasters etc. and the CCC itself
makes it a priority to deal with every complaint
before it as expeditiously as possible. However, as a
special gesture, the advertiser was granted an
extension of one additional business day to respond.
There was no response received from the advertiser
in time for the CCC meeting.
The CCC viewed the Website advertisement
(https://www.bengalimatrimony.com/) and YouTube
advertisements
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TNTYOSZBOg
, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tobDFIyCRNQ,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXLSZ0Amer0,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDD62TbVOPI
and considered the advertiser’s response and the
supporting data provided by them.
The CCC was of the view that while there are other
search engines as well, Google is one of such search
engines which is most likely to be used by the users
worldwide as a search engine. In digital marketing
the evaluation of websites, blogs is more of
dependent on the number of searches and traffic on
such websites, the data of which is also provided
through Google reports. However, Google trends is
not a third party platform and that it provides
research data only for the searches that are made
through Google.
The CCC felt that the Google analytic data is by itself
not sufficient evidence to support the claim, and did
not consider this data as acceptable as it is only
search data which does not make the advertiser’s
brand/service as No.1 and most trusted. The
advertiser can claim themselves to be `No.1 search
brand’ but not `No.1 and most trusted’. The revenue
figures and the profit figures quoted in the
advertiser’s response comparing themselves with that
of the complainant was not considered relevant, as
according to the CCC, the less number of searches
they can have a higher revenue. For claiming to be
No.1, the volume of search interest does not suffice,
instead the number of individuals registered with the
website should be given weightage. Advertiser relied
on data which was available on Google trend, and
the advertiser did not provide a certification by an
independent third party to validate the data of being
`No.1 and most trusted’ matrimony service for
Bengalis. Data from Google trend is not sufficient to
prove the claim as the same cannot be construed as a
third party. The parameter they have used to claim
No.1 and most trusted does not justify the claim
made and is not recognised for a claim of this nature.
They have not used the correct data to make an
appropriate claim.
Based on these observations, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “The No. 1 & Most Trusted Matrimony
Service for Bengalis” was inadequately substantiated
with verifiable comparative data with market sales
data, volume and value share data, or any third party
validation. The claim is misleading by exaggeration
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of consumers. The source for the claim
was not indicated in the advertisements. The Website
advertisement and the YouTube advertisements
contravened Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
3. W 2012-C.2281 Kirti Group (Kirti Gold
Premium Cooking Oil)
MEDIUM: Instagram advertisement
(https://www.instagram.com/p/CGUNEBeBncg/?igsh
id=17xlgzu42r3h5) and Facebook advertisement
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
“Www.instagram.com/kirtigold
Www.instagram.com/kirtigoldofficial
Advertisement detail
https://www.instagram.com/p/CGUNEBeBncg/?igshi
d=17xlgzu42r3h5
Simple rule-highest likes. Then i cross checked with
their team members Onig and fb Winners
announcement
Link of fb -
https://www.facebook.com/899760913380024/posts/
3575074792515276/
Link of ig -
https://www.instagram.com/p/CHjzTErIn_o/?
Series of events which raised suspicion that brand
does not want to give prize.
1)Announcement done on 14th November.
2)i suddenly get fake/bot comments 7days after the
announcement (attaching screenshot
3)i REMOVED THE TAGS 6DAYS BACK (ONE
DAY AFTER THESE FAKE COMMENTS) because
it gives a bad impression on my profile since i never
take bot likes. See, edited 6days back.
4)Now, when i asked about the prize, i was told i was
disqualified, because i edited tags. He knew someone
is posting fake comments.
5)theni put the tags back. Today finally they said the
same thing. Its ridiculous. One needs to PAY to post
fake comments, No contestant will pay to post, iwont
Recommendations – December 2020
do it. So eirher the brand had done it. Its 15k cash.
17th November these comments started
appearing.Soi removed REMOVED the tag, not
edited as they are saying I did some
"scam.Everything on ig is transparent. They can see
my post "insights" it has reached 2689 people out of
which 2683 liked. They cant find any reason to
disqualify me, so this foul play.
I totally suspect foul play from the brand. Because,
fake comments and bots need to be oaid. Any
contestant would not do it after the winner
announcement. It has to be brand itself. They dont
want to give away the promised prize amount.
Now the brand has blocked me. However they still
havent removed the winners announcement post.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CHjzTErIn_o/?igshid=
1nwo8o60w7rv8”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered an
option to seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the
complaint by modifying or withdrawing the claims
objected to in the advertisement, or alternately to
substantiate the claims with the required supporting
data. The advertiser was also offered an opportunity
for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they
did not avail nor did they submit their written
response. The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC)
noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the Facebook post
(https://www.facebook.com/899760913380024/posts/
3575074792515276/) and the Instagram Post
(https://www.instagram.com/p/CHjzTErIn_o/?) as
shared by the complainant and observed that the
advertiser had declared contest to reward the
‘Cultural Face of the Year’. As per the post, the
participants had to post their photo dressing in
respective colour clothes based on the colour
representing the 9 days of Navratri as per the
common religious belief with a # specified by the
advertiser having their brand name.
The Advertiser had declared a cash award of INR
15,001 for the 1st Winner. The CCC observed the
series of Instagram, Facebook posts, and comments
in light of the complainant’s grievance. The sequence
explained by complainant in the complaint was noted
by the CCC. The Complainant was declared as
winner and advertiser had posted her to be the top
winner on their Instagram and Facebook page. As
explained by the complainant on receiving post of
allegation for fake likes she made alteration in her
post and removed the tag. Eventually the advertiser
disqualified her due to this and did not reward her
with the cash prize as committed. The CCC felt that
the advertiser’s intention to pay the reward to the
winning contestant was dubious.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the `#Navratri
#MeraCulture MeraPride’ contest promoted in the
advertisement was not substantiated, is misleading by
omission and exaggeration, and is likely to lead to
grave disappointment in the minds of consumers.
The Instagram and the Facebook Posts contravened
Chapters I.1, I.4, I.5 and I.5 (f) of the ASCI Code.
This complaint was UPHELD.
4. OC 2012-C.2331 Berger Paints India Ltd.(*)
(Berger Silk Breathe Easy)
MEDIUM: Website advertisement
(https://www.bergerpaints.com/)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Protects from COVID Virus – 99% Effective
Against COVID-19 Virus”
Complaint:
“The Berger Paint Company in their Advertisement is
mentioning that its protects from Corona Virus and
the same is approved by the Indian Medical
Association. India is facing the worst situation
because of the Covid -19 Virus. In such a situation, a
reputed company like Berger Paint is claiming that
their products protects from CoronaVirus. Even the
Indian Medical Association denied the claim of the
Berger Company. We have lost more than 1.5 Lakh
people in India because of the Corona. The above
mentioned creates ruckus in the Society.
Advertisement is misleading the society and at the
same time it is against the ASCI code and Consumer
Protection Act. Misleading the society on such a
serious issue is a criminal offense. Berger paint
company is advertising their
product (Protects from Corona Virus). It is illegal to
make such baseless remark. It is also a fraud with the
customer. They are one of the reputed company in
the market. Their action can put millions of lives at
stake. My humble submission before you to kindly
take strict action against the company and direct the
company to withdraw the Advertisement.
With reference to the Indian Medical Association
claim, I am attaching the screenshot of the webportal
Recommendations – December 2020
(
https://www.google.com/amp/s/theprint.in/features/to
othbrush-paint-ac-plywood-can-all-protect-against-
covid-if-you-believe-these-ads/538891/%3famp)
Secondly, my ground of objection are as follows -
1. They have mentioned on their website (Berger
paint) that it protects from corona virus.
There is no evidence of their claim. It can create huge
problems in the society as the claims are baseless.”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered
an opportunity to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat
to seek further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser in their response stated that “These tests
on the features claimed were carried out by their
R&D Lab
(where possible) and also by independent and
accredited laboratories. They have data to show
efficiency of the coating against SARS-CoV-2 by
multiple recognized laboratories of BSL2 and BSL3
showing efficacy.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided Test
Reports on Anti-Viral efficacy, Test Reports on Anti-
SARS CoV-2 efficacy, Declaration of due diligence
from Celebrity.
The complaint and the advertiser’s response with the
claim support data was referred to the independent
technical expert of ASCI. The CCC viewed the
website advertisement
(https://www.bergerpaints.com/) and considered the
advertiser’s response as well as the opinion of the
Technical expert presented at the meeting.
The CCC observed that the claim was qualified via
disclaimer to mention that “99% efficiency within 30
minutes of treatment as per study done by Rajiv
Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (Government of
India certified laboratory).” The CCC noted that
the efficacy study for the product, Berger Silk
Breathe Easy was done at Rajiv Gandhi Centre for
Biotechnology (RGCB) with SARS-CoV-2
(COVID19) isolate. The study result concluded that
SARS-CoV-2 specific RNA (E&S target gene) was
not detected (Berger Silk Breathe Easy) after 30
minutes of treatment. However, this is not the
standard testing protocol for demonstrating the
antiviral/antimicrobial activity/efficacy of products
on surfaces etc. Subsequently, the additional data
submitted of studies carried out at IMTECH,
Chandigarh, supported the advertiser’s claim about
efficacy against Covid 19 viruses. The CCC
deliberated on various aspects like the time span for
which the protection would last, the type of room in
which the testing was done, period for which
bacteria/ virus have to be in contact with the paint to
be neutralised etc. It was seen that there was no
clarifications provided on what would happen to the
room air as typically these are virsus carried in
aerosol droplets which are present in the air therefore
the extent to which the wall paint could remove what
is in the air would be crucial from a consumer’s point
of view to understand. These depend on many
factors as to what would be the agitation in the room,
and the dead spots present in the room.
In the absence of this data, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “Protects from COVID Virus* – 99%
Effective Against COVID-19 Virus” was
inadequately substantiated. The claim of “Protects
from COVID Virus*” is misleading to normal
consumer who may not have bandwidth to
understand the contention of the claim as explained
by the advertiser. Given the current
pandemic situation, the claim is likely to mislead
consumers that the product offers protection from
Coronavirus, and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The
Website advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.4
and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD
For the objection raised against the celebrity
endorsing the product, the CCC observed that the
advertiser has submitted evidence that the celebrity
(Kareena Kapoor Khan) has done due diligence and
that she confirms all the claims made in the
advertisement. This complaint was NOT UPHELD
NAMS Complaints
5. @ 2011-C.1979 Prakash Engineering
Industries – Stickall Adhesive
MEDIUM: EP Daily Sakal(*), Nasik Edition, Main
Issue (Marathi) (17.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Nashik's Best Branded Adhesive”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
Recommendations – December 2020
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that advertiser is dealing in adhesive solutions, and is
claiming their product to be “Nashik's Best Branded
Adhesive”.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Nashik's Best Branded Adhesive” was not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s,
adhesive brand versus other adhesive brands in
Nashik, to prove that they are better than the rest, nor
the claim was backed by a third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
6. @ 2011-C.1702 Vijaya Diagnostic Centre Pvt
Ltd
MEDIUM: Eenadu(*), Warangal Edition, Main
Issue (Telugu) (24.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India's Biggest Diagnostic Centre”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint.
Advertiser replied post due date seeking for a telecon
with the ASCI Secretariat to discuss and seek further
guidance on the complaint. However, the advertiser
did not avail the telecon which was offered to them.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the print advertisement and observed that the
advertiser is claiming their diagnostic centre to be the
biggest in India. In the absence of claim support
data, the CCC concluded that the claim, “India's
Biggest Diagnostic Centre” was not substantiated
with verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
diagnostic centre versus other similar diagnostic
centre’s in India, to prove that they are bigger than all
the rest, nor the claim was backed by an independent
third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters I.1 and I.4 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
7. @ 2011-C.2019 The JawaharVidyalaya
Society Group-Aligarh College of Engineering
& Technology /Aligrah College of Pharmacy)
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan(*), Aligarh Edition, Main
Issue(English), (04.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Ranked No.1-Achieved First Rank in Academics in
Aligarh Region”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and observed
that the advertiser’s college is providing courses such
as MBA, MCA, BBA, BCA, B.Tech, and other
courses. They have claimed to have achieved first rank
in Academics in Aligarh Region.Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “Ranked No.1-Achieved First Rank in
Academics in Aligarh Region” was not substantiated
with copy of the award/ranking certificate, details of
the process for selection for ranking, criteria for
granting the ranks, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
institutes/colleges in Aligarh region that were part of
the survey, the outcome of the survey, and details
about the ranking body. The source for the claim was
not mentioned in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Recommendations – December 2020
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
8. @ 2011-C.2020 Doon Business School,
Dehradun
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Nainital Edition,
Main Issue,(English), (30.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“We are not only ranked as Top Management
College now we are also ranked No.1 in Mass
Communication in Uttarakhand”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s college is providing
courses such as MA Mass Comm, BA (Hons.) Mass
Comm, PGDM, MBA, BBA, BCA, and other
courses. They have claimed to be ranked as a top
management college and No.1 in Mass
Communication in Uttarakhand by The Week
Magazine.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “We are not only
ranked as Top Management College now we are also
ranked No.1 in Mass Communication in
Uttarakhand” was not substantiated with copy of the
award/ ranking certificate, details of the process for
selection for ranking, criteria for granting the ranks,
survey methodology, parameters considered,
questionnaires used, names of other Management
institutes/ colleges in Uttarakhand that were part of
the survey, the outcome of the survey, and details
about the ranking body. The source for the claim was
not indicated in the advertisement
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
9. @ 2011-C.2021 GNIOT Group of Institutions-
Greater Noida Institute of Technology
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*),New Delhi Edition,
Supplement JagranCity(*),(English), (05.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“GNIOT Ranked AAA-India's Best Engg Colleges
2020 (Issued By Careers 360)”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is providing
courses such as B.Tech, M.Tech, PGDM, MBA,
MCA, BBA, BCA, B.Com and integrated BBA along
with MBA. The advertiser has claimed that it is
`ranked AAA as India's Best Engg Colleges 2020 by
Careers 360’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “GNIOT Ranked
AAA-India's Best Engg Colleges 2020 (Issued By
Careers 360)” was not substantiated with copy of the
award/ ranking certificate, details of the process for
selection for ranking, criteria for granting the ranks,
survey methodology, parameters considered,
questionnaires used, names of other Engineering
institutes/ colleges in India that were part of the
survey, the outcome of the survey. The source for the
claim was not indicated in the advertisement
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Recommendations – December 2020
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
10. @ 2011-C.2023 NSHM Knowledge Campus-
NSHM School of Media & Communication
MEDIUM: EP The Telegraph, Kolkata Edition, The
Telegraph T2 Review,(English), (04.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Ranked No.1 Media institute in Eastern India-India
Today Survey”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is providing
courses such as B.Sc. (Film and Television), B.Sc. in
Media Science, M.Sc. (Digital Films) and M.Sc. in
Media Science. The advertiser’s institute has claimed
that it is `ranked as No.1 Media institute in Eastern
India as per India Today Survey’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Ranked No.1 Media
institute in Eastern India-India Today Survey” was
not substantiated with copy of the award/ ranking
certificate, details of the process for selection for
ranking, criteria for granting the ranks, survey
methodology, parameters considered, questionnaires
used, names of other Media institutes/ colleges in
Eastern India that were part of the survey, the
outcome of the survey. The source for the claim was
not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters I.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
11. @ 2011-C.2024 NSHM Knowledge Campus-
NSHM School of Tourism& Hotel
Management
MEDIUM: EP The Telegraph, Kolkata Edition, The
Telegraph T2 Review (English), (06.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Ranked No.1 in the East and among top 10 Hotel
Management Colleges in India -The Week,2019’’
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is providing
courses such as B.Sc. (Culinary Science), BTTM
(Bachelor in Travel & Tourism Management), M.Sc.
(Hospitality Management) and B.Sc. in Hospitality
and Hotel Administration. The advertiser has claimed
that it is `ranked as No.1 in the East and among top
10 Hotel Management Colleges in India by The
Week Magazine, 2019’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Ranked No.1 in the
East and among top 10 Hotel Management Colleges
in India -The Week, 2019’’ was not substantiated
with copy of the award/ ranking certificate, details of
the process for selection for ranking, criteria for
granting the ranks, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
Hotel Management institutes/ colleges in India that
were part of the survey, and the outcome of the
survey. The source for the claim was not indicated in
the advertisement
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Recommendations – December 2020
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
12. @ 2011-C.2027 Swamy Ayyappan
Educational Trust-MIT College of Health
Sciences
MEDIUM: EP Dinakaran, Trichy Edition, Main
Issue,(Tamil), (20.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to
“100% Government Job Opportunity after studying”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is offering
two-year Diploma in ANM for females and Health
Inspector for male candidates and is assuring
Government job opportunity.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that while the advertiser may be providing
job opportunity to their students, the use of 100%
numerical is not relevant for a “100% Government
Job Opportunity after studying” claim. There cannot
be a percentage assigned to any opportunity claim
such as 40% or 80% opportunity. The use of “100%”
as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to grave and
widespread disappointment in the minds of students.
The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
13. @ 2011-C.2030 Gyan Guru Academy-Edu
Mantra
MEDIUM: EP DainikJagran(*),Bareilly Edition,
Main Issue,( Hindi), (18.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Be it for a preparation of NEET or IIT-JEE, we have
brought Best Faculties of Kota and Delhi to your own
city”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser is running coaching classes for
imparting coaching for students preparing for NEET
and IIT- JEE.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC settled that the claim, “Be it for a
preparation of NEET or IIT-JEE, we have brought
Best Faculties of Kota and Delhi to your own city”
was not substantiated with any market survey data or
with verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
class Faculty versus Faculty of other such coaching
classes, to prove that their Faculties are better than
the rest in Kota and Delhi, nor the claim was backed
by a third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The Print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code and
ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs. This complaint was
UPHELD.
14. @ 2011-C.2031 Vidyadhish Vidyasankul
MEDIUM: Saurashtra Samachar(*), Bhavnagar
Edition, Main Issue, (Gujarati) (13.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Institution with the Best Success Ratio in Bhavnagar
means... VDVS”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
Recommendations – December 2020
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser is providing coaching for JEE-
Main exams.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Institution with the Best Success Ratio in Bhavnagar
means... VDVS” was not substantiated with any
market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s institute’s versus other
institutes in Bhavnagar, to prove that their success
ratio is better than the rest in JEE-Main (2020)
exams, nor the claim was backed by a third-party
validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code and
ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs. This complaint was
UPHELD.
15. @ 2011-C.2032 JVEM Education(P)Ltd.-
GyanKuteer
MEDIUM: Rajasthan Patrika(*),
SikarEdition,Main Issue,(Hindi), (01.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“For Sure Selection only…Gyan Kuteer”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
Pre-Foundation, Foundation, Target, IIT-JEE, NEET,
NTSE, NDA exams. The CCC also observed that the
advertiser is assuring selection in respective exams to
their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “For
Sure Selection only…Gyan Kuteer” was not
substantiated with supporting evidence of their
students who were selected for the courses claimed,
with their contact numbers for independent
verification by ASCI, nor the claim was backed by a
third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code and
ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs. This complaint was
UPHELD.
16. @ 2011-C.2033 Yuvodaya Advanced Classes
MEDIUM: Sambad, Sambalpur Edition, Main
Issue,(English), (24.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India's Highest Success Rate@ NEET-2020 (75 out
of 280)”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that advertiser is running coaching classes for
students preparing of IIT- JEE/ Medical and NEET
etc.
Recommendations – December 2020
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “India's
Highest Success Rate@ NEET-2020 (75 out of 280)”
was not substantiated with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s classes versus other similar
classes in India providing coaching in similar field, to
prove that their success rate is higher than the rest for
NEET 2020, nor the claim was backed by a third-
party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code, and
ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs. This complaint was
UPHELD.
17. @ 2011-C.2034 Mysore Maharaja Institute of
Higher Education-GEMS B School
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Bangalore Edition,
Supplement, Education Times, (English),
(05.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Awarded the Most preferred B-School in South
India 2019 by ASSOCHAM India
2. Awarded the Most Preferred B School for
Placements 2020 by ASSOCHAM India
2. Awarded the Most Innovative B School in South
India at the Times Business Awards 2020.
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that advertiser’s institute is providing coaching for
Industry synergised MBA, MBA in healthcare
management & hospital administration, MBA in
Hospitality & Travel Tourism, MBA in Event
Management, British MBA.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims,
“Awarded the Most preferred B-School in South
India 2019 by ASSOCHAM India”, “Awarded the
Most Preferred B School for Placements 2020 by
ASSOCHAM India”, and “Awarded the Most
Innovative B School in South India at the Times
Business Awards 2020”, were not substantiated with
copy of the award certificates, details of the process
for awards selection, criteria for granting the awards,
survey methodology, parameters considered,
questionnaires used, names of other MBA schools/
institutions in South India that were part of the
survey, the outcome of the survey, and the details of
the awarding body. The source for the claims was
not indicated in the advertisement
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers especially students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
18. @ 2011-C.2035 The Sacred Heart College
Society- Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen
Kaushalya Yojana
MEDIUM: Daily Thanthi, Vellore Edition,
Main Issue,(Tamil), (28.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Job Opportunity in the relevant private
sector upon completion of three months of Skill
Development Training
2. 100% Job Opportunity
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claims, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
Recommendations – December 2020
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s college is offering Skill
development training programme for rural youth and
is assuring job opportunity in the relevant private
sector upon completion of three months of Skill
Development Training.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that while the advertiser may be providing
job opportunity to their students, the use of 100%
numerical is not relevant for “100% Job Opportunity
in the relevant private sector upon completion of
three months of Skill Development Training” and
“100% Job Opportunity” claims. There cannot be a
percentage assigned to any opportunity claim such as
40% or 80% opportunity. The use of “100%” as a
descriptor in the claims is misleading by implication
and is likely to lead to grave and widespread
disappointment in the minds of students.
The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
19. @ 2011-C.2036 The Heritage Group of
Institutions-Heritage Business School
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*),Jamshedpur
Edition, Main Issue,( English), (04.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Most Preferred B-School of the Year East” in
2020 by ASSOCHAM India
2. Best Education Brands 2020 by The Economic
Times
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser has made the claims on the basis of
the awards granted to their institute by ASSOCHAM
India and The Economic Times.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims, “Most
Preferred B-School of the Year East in 2020 by
ASSOCHAM India” and “Best Education Brands
2020 by The Economic Times” were not
substantiated with copy of the award certificates,
details of the process for awards selection, criteria for
granting the awards, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
schools / institutions that were part of the survey, the
outcome of the survey, and details about the
awarding body. The source for the claims was not
indicated in the advertisement. The claims are
misleading by exaggeration and are likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers especially students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
20. @ 2011-C.2037 Sage University, Indore-Sage
Institute of Engineering & Technology (SIRT)
MEDIUM: Times of India(*),Bhopal Edition, Main
Issue,( English), (02.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Competition Success Review 1st Law School in
Central India
2. DL Ranked Best Institute of Engineering
&Technology with AAAA+
3. Sage Group-Sage University Bhopal, Indore and
SIRT College Bhopal has turned out to be the
most preferred destinations for higher studies to
the students across India
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
Recommendations – December 2020
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser’s institute is providing courses in
the field of science, commerce, Management studies,
design, agriculture etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims,
“Competition Success Review 1st Law School in
Central India” and “DL Ranked Best Institute of
Engineering &Technology with AAAA+” were not
substantiated with copy of the award certificates,
details of the process for awards selection, criteria for
granting the awards, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
schools / institutions that were part of the survey, the
outcome of the survey, and the details of the
awarding body. The source for the claims was not
indicated in the advertisement.
Claim, “Sage Group-Sage University Bhopal, Indore
and SIRT College Bhopal has turned out to be the
most preferred destinations for higher studies to the
students across India” was not substantiated with any
market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s college / university versus
other institutes/universities in India, to prove that
they are most preferred for higher studies than all the
rest. The claim was also not backed by a third-party
validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers especially students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
21. @ 2011-C.2038 FIITJEE Limited
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan Times(*), New Delhi
Edition, Main Issue,
(English), (06.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“FIITJEE has been Ranked India's Number 1
coaching institute for the 2nd consecutive year (for
engineering entrance examinations) by one of the
most widely acclaimed Magazines of the country-
INDIA TODAY”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail and
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “Fiitjee has been ranked No. 1
again by INDIA TODAY-MDRA survey for
Engineering Entrance examinations.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided a copy
of the India Today report.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the print advertisement and considered the
advertiser’s response with the supporting data
provided by them. The CCC reviewed the India
Today-MDRA survey report published in India
Today of September 7, 2020 issue and observed that
under the section `Ranks and Scores of Coaching
Institutes for JEE’, in the overall rank 2020, the
advertiser’ institute was listed as No.1 with a total
score of 995.3 out of 1000. This proved that they
were in leadership position (No.1) for ranking than
all the other institutes that were part of the survey.
The data also showed that they were ranked No.1 in
2019 also.
Based on the advertiser’s response with the
supporting data provided, the CCC concluded that the
claim, “FIITJEE has been Ranked India's Number 1
coaching institute for the 2nd consecutive year (for
engineering entrance examinations) by one of the
most widely acclaimed Magazines of the country-
INDIA TODAY” was substantiated. The print
advertisement is not in contravention of Chapter I of
the ASCI Code, ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements, and ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs. This complaint was NOT UPHELD.
22. @ 2011-C.2142 Extra Innings Heart Care
Center
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat, Nasik Edition, Supplement
Hello Nasik (Marathi) (29.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The Safest Treatment Procedure to Avoid the
Problems of High Blood Pressure, Diabetes and
Angioplasty/ Bypass in the Future”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
Recommendations – December 2020
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The advertiser had a heart care centre and was
providing treatment for health Problems of High
Blood Pressure, Diabetes and Angioplasty/ Bypass
etc.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting treatment
for health problems of High Blood Pressure,
Diabetes, and Angioplasty/ Bypass etc. However, the
advertiser did not provide any details of the treatment
procedure, nor any details regarding the medicines
used for treatment of the claimed diseases, and their
approval status by the regulatory authorities.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “The
Safest Treatment Procedure to Avoid the Problems of
High Blood Pressure, Diabetes and Angioplasty/
Bypass in the Future” was not substantiated with any
supporting clinical evidence and treatment efficacy
data. Also, the advertiser did not provide any market
survey data or verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s treatment procedure versus other clinic’s
treatment procedure for curing claimed diseases, to
prove that their treatment procedure is safest than all
the rest. The claim was not backed by a third party
validation. The claim is misleading by exaggeration
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of consumers particularly patients
suffering from high blood pressure, diabetes and
heart problems. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
23. @ 2011-C.2143 Geetanjali Hospital (GMCH)
MEDIUM: Rajasthan Patrika(*), Jaipur Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (29.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“South Rajasthan's Largest and Experienced Cardiac
Science Team”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser is offering treatment for
angioplasty, ball surgery, pacemaker implant, bypass
surgery, etc
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “South
Rajasthan's Largest and Experienced Cardiac Science
Team” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s hospital versus
other hospitals in South Rajasthan, to prove that their
cardiac science team is larger and experienced than
all the rest, nor the claim was backed by a third-party
validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers especially those suffering from any such
ailments. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
24. @ 2011-C.2144 Grow Up - Online Grocery
Delivery
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Jodhpur Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (25.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Best Quality Products”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
Recommendations – December 2020
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that advertiser is promoting its online grocery
delivery store.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “Best
Quality Products” was not substantiated with any
market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s products verses other products
of such other grocery stores, to prove that the quality
of their products is better than the rest, nor the claim
was backed by a third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
25. @ 2011-C.2145 Hope NICU
MEDIUM: Saurashtrav Samachar(*), Bhvanagar
Edition, Main Issue (Gujarati) (27.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Gujarat's Largest And Bhavnagar's First 30 Bed
NICU.
2. Gujarat's Largest Team of Pediatricians.
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the concerned Media (Dainik
Bhaskar Group) for their assistance in providing the
contact details of the advertiser, or to forward the
complaint to the advertiser. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser or from the
concerned media prior to the due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser is promoting treatment and care for
new borns.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims,
“Gujarat's Largest And Bhavnagar's First 30 Bed
NICU” and “Gujarat's Largest Team of
Paediatricians” were not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s treatment centre
versus other similar treatment centres, to prove that
they are larger in Gujarat and First in Bhavnagar than
the rest, and their Team of Paediatricians is larger
than the rest in Gujarat. The claims were also not
backed by a third-party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
26. @ 2011-C.2146 Jansa Solar Solutions Pvt Ltd
MEDIUM: Divya Bhaskar(*), Vadodara Edition,
Main Issue (English) (28.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Leadership award Winner from 94.3 MyFm”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser’s organization is in the business of
solar rooftops. The CCC observed that the advertiser
has made the claim on the basis of winning a
leadership award from 94.3 MyFm.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Leadership award Winner from 94.3 MyFm” was
not substantiated with copy of the award certificate,
details of the process for award selection, criteria for
granting the award, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
companies providing solar rooftops that were part of
the survey, the outcome of the survey, and the details
of the awarding body. The source for the claim was
not indicated in the advertisement
The claim is misleading by exaggeration. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.2 and 1.4
of the ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
27. @ 2011-C.2147 Kanba Hospital
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Jodhpur Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (25.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Most Emerging Hospital in East Ahmedabad 2018
Recommendations – December 2020
2. Best Ortho-Spine Surgery Hospital in Ahmedabad
2019
3. Pioneer of Gujarat 2020
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that advertiser is providing treatment for knee and hip
pain, back pain, tuberculosis, child neurosurgery,
orthopaedic surgery etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims, “Most
Emerging Hospital in East Ahmedabad 2018”, “Best
Ortho-Spine Surgery Hospital in Ahmedabad 2019”
and “Pioneer of Gujarat 2020” were not substantiated
with copy of the award certificates, details of the
process for awards selection, criteria for granting the
awards, survey methodology, parameters considered,
questionnaires used, names of other similar hospitals
in Ahmedabad and Gujarat that were part of the
survey, the outcome of the survey, and the details of
the awarding body. The source for the claims was
not indicated in the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
28. @ 2011-C.2148 Karnal Medical Centre (Dr.
Sanjay Khanna)
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Panipat Edition,
Supplement Jagran City (Hindi) (04.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Awarded as Best ENT Specialist in Delhi and NCR”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser is providing treatment for
deafness, and is claiming to be awarded as `Best ENT
Specialist in Delhi and NCR’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Awarded as Best ENT Specialist in Delhi and NCR”
was not substantiated with copy of the award
certificate, details of the process for award selection,
criteria for granting the award, survey methodology,
parameters considered, questionnaires used, names of
other similar Medical centres providing treatment for
deafness in Delhi and NCR that were part of the
survey, the outcome of the survey, and details of the
awarding body. The source for the claim was not
indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code, and
ASCI Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
29. @ 2011-C.2149 Malhotra Mother & Child
Hospital (Dr. Sona Malhotra)
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Panipat Edition,
Supplement Jagran City (Hindi) (04.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT
Claim objected to:
“Let’s Start your Life Here Find the Best
Gynecologist”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
Recommendations – December 2020
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that advertiser is offering treatment for child delivery,
pregnancy care, child care, etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “Let’s
Start your Life Here Find the Best Gynaecologist”
was not substantiated with any market survey data or
with verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
hospital versus other similar hospitals providing
similar treatment, to prove that their Gynaecologist is
better than the rest, nor the claim was backed by a
third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
30. @ 2011-C.2150 Maxlife Diagnostic &
Research Centre (Dr. Sanjeev Kumar)
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Bhagalpur Edition,
Main Issue(Hindi) (02.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Bihar's Best Diagnostics and Research Centre in
your Service since 12 Years”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that advertiser is offering complete health check up
facilities.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Bihar's Best Diagnostics and Research Centre in
your Service since 12 Years” was not substantiated
with any market survey data or with verifiable
comparative data on year on year basis since the last
12 years as claimed, of the advertiser’s Diagnostics
and Research Centre, versus other such Diagnostics
and Research Centres in Bihar, to prove that they are
better than the rest, nor the claim was backed by a
third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
31. @ 2011-C.2151 Narnolia Financial Advisors
Limited/ Motilal Oswal Commodities Broker
Pvt. Ltd
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan(*), Bhagalpur Edition,
Main Issue (English) (02.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Most Consistent Portfolio Manager of the Country
2018, 2019 (BSE Tefla's)
2. India's Most Promising Brand 2017 by WCRC
3. NSDL- Best Performer in Account Growth Rate
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the Advertiser is a SEBI registered
Stock Broker, depository participant, Merchant
banker, Research Analyst etc. The CCC noted that
the advertiser is claiming to be awarded with titles as
claimed.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims, “Most
Consistent Portfolio Manager of the Country 2018,
2019 (BSE Tefla's)”, “India's Most Promising Brand
2017 by WCRC” and “NSDL- Best Performer in
Account Growth Rate” were not substantiated with
Recommendations – December 2020
copy of the award certificates, details of the process
for awards selection, criteria for granting the awards,
survey methodology, parameters considered,
questionnaires used, names of similar financial
advisors/brokers in India that were part of the survey,
the outcome of the survey, and the details of the
awarding body. The source for the claims was not
indicated in the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4, and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
32. @ 2011-C.2152 Narnolia Financial Advisors
Limited/ Motilal Oswal Commodities Broker
Pvt. Ltd
MEDIUM: Prabhat Khabar, Patna Edition, Main
Issue(English) (02.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Largest Broker of the East
2. Largest & Most Experienced Team in the East
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that advertisers - Narnolia Financial Advisors and
Motilal Oswal Commodities Broker through their
strategic partnership provided their clients research,
advisory and brokerage services and related
investment services.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims,
“Largest Broker of the East” and “Largest & Most
Experienced Team in the East” were not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s entities and their team versus similar
financial advisors/brokers and their teams, in the
East, to prove that they are larger and their team is
larger and more experienced than all the rest. The
claims were also not backed by a third-party
validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
33. @ 2011-C.2153 New Life Hospital
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Varanasi Edition,
Main Issue (English) (29.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Option for Painless Delivery”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that advertiser is providing service/care for
maternity, genecology, pregnancy etc. They have
offered an `option for painless delivery’ as one of the
facilities being provided by them.
The advertiser did not provide any details of the
treatment procedure, nor any details regarding the
medicines used for treatment of painless delivery and
their approval status by the regulatory authorities.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Option for painless delivery” was not substantiated
with any supporting clinical evidence and treatment
efficacy data to prove that women delivered children
without any other intervention such as pain killers/
local anaesthesia or epidural injections. The claim
omits the modalities of the delivery procedure. The
claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely to
lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers particularly pregnant women. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5
Recommendations – December 2020
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
34. @ 2011-C.2154 Nuetech Solar Systems Pvt.
Ltd (Nuetech Solar Water Heater)
MEDIUM: Prajavani, Bangalore Edition, Main
Issue(English) (03.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Best Premier Solar Brand in India”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting a solar
water heater claiming it to be the `Best Premier Solar
Brand in India’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “Best
Premier Solar Brand in India” was not substantiated
with any market survey data or with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s brand verses
other solar water heater brands in India, to prove that
their brand is better than the others, nor the claim was
backed by a third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
35. @ 2011-C.2155 Omaxe Ltd Omaxe Chandni
Chowk (Jewel Court)
MEDIUM: Navbharat Times(*), New Delhi Edition,
Supplement Delhi Times (English) (14.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India's BIGGEST Jewellery Hub is here!”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is in the business of real
estate and is providing wholesale/ retail shops for
selling Jewellery.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “India's BIGGEST
Jewellery Hub is here!” was not substantiated with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser versus
other similar companies in India, to prove that the
advertiser’s jewellery hub is bigger than the others.
The claim was also not backed by a third-party
validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
36. @ 2011-C.2156 Aastha Old Age Hospital
MEDIUM: Navbharat Times(*), Lucknow Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (01.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Recipient VayoshreshthaSamman by Hon. President
of India for Outstanding Services in the Field of
Ageing & Geriatrics”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “the advertisement was printed
on the basis of the said Honour which was awarded
to the Aastha Centre by the Hon'ble President of
India at New Delhi. The Ministry of Social Justice
and Empowerment, Government of India was pleased
to confer, the "Vayoshreshtha Samman for the Best
Recommendations – December 2020
Institution for providing services to the Senior
Citizens and Awareness Generation" for the year
2016 on Aastha Centre.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided a
photograph of the award function.
As this response was inadequate, ASCI Secretariat
requested the advertiser to provide the details of the
survey methodology with the outcome of the survey,
and copy of any financial transaction involved for
participating and/or receiving such award. In
response to this query, the advertiser reverted that
“the award was advertised by the Ministry of Social
justice and empowerment, GOI, New Delhi all across
the country, and there were several applicants, and
strict scrutiny, as the ministry of Social Justice and
Empowerment is a Government body they did not
share with them how the selection for award was
done. But as the outcome of their application that
they had applied for the above award, they received a
letter dated 22nd sep 2016 from Joint Secretary,
Government of India. Yes there was a financial
transaction of Rs. 5.0 lacks.”
Advertiser provided a copy of letter of September
2016 from Government of India inviting the
advertiser for the award ceremony.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the print advertisement and considered the
advertiser’s response. The CCC observed that the
advertiser has made the said claim on the basis of the
award granted to their centre/hospital by The
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment,
Government of India in October 2016. The award
was given to the advertiser for providing services to
the senior citizens and awareness generation.
However, the advertiser did not provide a copy of the
award certificate. Also, the claim was not qualified
to mention the source and year of the award. The
CCC was of the view that the advertiser needs to
mention the year of award in the advertisement since
the award was facilitated for their outstanding
services during that relevant period in which it was
awarded.
Based on these observations, by majority, the CCC
concluded that though the claim, “Recipient
Vayoshreshtha Samman by Hon. President of India
for Outstanding Services in the Field of Ageing &
Geriatrics”, was not objectionable, the year and the
source for the claim was not indicated in the
advertisement. The advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements as well as Chapter I.2 of the ASCI
Code (“Where advertising claims are expressly stated
to be based on or supported by independent research
or assessment, the source and date of this should be
indicated in the advertisement.”). This complaint
was UPHELD.
37. @ 2011-C.2157 Pratibha Hospital & Heart
Care Centre
MEDIUM: EP Daily Sakal(*), Satara Edition, Main
Issue (Marathi) (29.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Solve your Heart Complications and Give the Best
Treatment
2. The Best Heart Care Centre of Satara District
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that advertiser’s hospital is providing treatment for
heart problems / diseases.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims, “Solve
your Heart Complications and Give the Best
Treatment” and “The Best Heart Care Centre of
Satara District” were not substantiated with any
market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s hospital/heart care centre
versus similar hospitals/heart care centres in Satara
District, to prove that their hospital and their
treatment provided is better than all the rest. The
claims were also not backed by a third-party
validation. The claims are misleading by
exaggeration and are likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
38. @ 2011-C.2158 Reddys Medicare
MEDIUM: Prabhat Khabar, Deoghar Edition, Main
Issue (English) (18.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
Recommendations – December 2020
“India's Most Trusted and Quality Certified Patho
Lab”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser’s Lab is providing COVID-19
RTPCR test and is claiming to be `India's Most
Trusted and Quality Certified Pathology Laboratory’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “India's
Most Trusted and Quality Certified Patho Lab” was
not substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
pathology laboratory, versus other such pathology
laboratories in India, to prove that their lab is more
trusted than the others, nor the claim was backed by a
third-party validation. The source for the claim was
not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
39. @ 2011-C.2159 Gaurav Enterprises - Baliraja
Atta Chakki
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat, Kolhapur Edition,
Supplement Hello Kolhapur (Marathi) (03.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 Choice of all Housewives”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting flour mill
machine as well as other products like water purifier,
gas chimney, mixer etc. The advertisement claimed
that the advertiser’s product (Baliraja Atta Chakki) is
the `No. 1 choice of all Housewives’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the leadership claim, “No.1
Choice of all Housewives” was not substantiated with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
product versus similar atta chakki brands, to prove
that their product is in leadership position (No.1)
than the others. The claim was also not backed by a
third-party validation. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
40. @ 2011-C.2160 Shiva Hospital The Multi
Speciality Hospital
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Gorakhpur Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (18.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Painless Delivery”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser is providing treatment for various
diseases like kidney stone, pregnancy and child
delivery, Orthopaedic care, etc. They have
mentioned `painless delivery’ to be one of the
treatment facilities provided by them.
Recommendations – December 2020
The CCC observed that the advertiser did not provide
any details of the treatment procedure, nor any details
regarding the medicines used for treatment for
painless delivery, and their approval status by the
regulatory authorities.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“painless delivery” was not substantiated with
supporting clinical evidence and treatment efficacy
data, to prove that women were delivered without
any other intervention such as pain killers/ local
anaesthesia or epidural injections. The claim omits
the modalities of the delivery procedure. The claim
is misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers particularly pregnant women.
The print advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1,
1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
41. @ 2011-C.2162 Alroz Aviation
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://airliners.net)
(English) (05.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"Government Approved Course with 100%
Placement Guarantee”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://airliners.net) and observed that the advertiser
is guaranteeing placement to their students on
completion of their courses. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint, and in the absence of
response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that
the claim, "Government Approved Course with 100%
Placement Guarantee” was not substantiated with
authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
placed through their institute in relevant industry
sector on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The digital display
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in
supporting, limiting or explaining claims made in
advertisements, as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
42. @ 2011-C.2163 Asian Business School
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://forbes.com) (English) (09.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"100% Placement”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser in their response stated that “the said CTC
offer of INR 17.33 (LPA) was offered by one of their
reputed recruiter "KhimjiRamdas Group" for
Marketing specialization students associated with
them since year 2018 till date. Since inception
Summer internships are offered to all the students at
the end of first year and opportunities for short term
skilled based projects are offered throughout the
year. They are associated with 300 plus recruiters
offering internship, project and career opportunities
to their students as per their requirement and hiring
cycle. In the best of scenario they are able to place
all their students successfully barring a very few
countable numbers (2%-3%) wherein placement
assistance is offered to students unless placed and a
student is passed out from the campus.” Advertiser
further agreed to add a disclaimer for the claim.
Recommendations – December 2020
As claim support data, the advertiser provided – (1)
Khimji Ramdas pdf and (2) CTC Break-up- Campus
Recruitment pdf
This response being inadequate, ASCI Secretariat
informed the advertiser that an addition of a
disclaimer for the claim made would not be
appropriate, as the claim would require supporting
evidence of their students who were provided
placements. They were also offered an option of IR
if they agreed to withdraw or modify the claim. As
the advertiser did make any further submissions, the
advertiser’s earlier response was placed before the
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) for their
deliberations.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
considered the advertiser’s response which had only
assertions about their claim. The CCC observed that
the advertiser did not provide authentic supporting
data such as batch size of students per year, detailed
list of students and evidence to support their
enrolment, contact details of students for verification,
list of students who were placed through their
schools/institute in relevant industries on completion
of their courses, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed
class.
In the absence of claim support data, the CCC
concluded the claim, “100% Placement” was not
substantiated. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to grave or
widespread disappointment in the minds of students.
The advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.4 and
I.5 of the ASCI Code as well as ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
made in supporting, limiting or explaining claims
made in advertisements. This complaint was
UPHELD.
43. @ 2011-C.2166 Bharath Institute of Higher
Education and Research
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://vijaykarnataka.indiatimes.com) (English)
(02.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://vijaykarnataka.indiatimes.com) and observed
that the advertiser’s institute is claiming that it
provides placement assistance to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the advertiser may be
providing placement assistance to their students for
getting jobs in relevant industries, the use of 100%
numerical is not relevant for “Placement Assistance”
claim. There cannot be a percentage assigned to any
assistance claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The
use of “100%” as a descriptor in the claim is
misleading by implication and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of students.
The digital display advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
44. @ 2011-C.2170 Brandveda Digital Marketing
Institute
MEDIUM: Digital Display (hhttp://loksatta.com)
(English) (13.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"We Brandveda Promises to Give you 100% Job
Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat.
The advertiser replied that their team is looking into
the complaint and they would like to discuss the
Recommendations – December 2020
complaint via telecon with the ASCI Secretariat.
However, the advertiser did not avail the option of
telecon nor did they submit their response prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the digital display advertisement
(hhttp://loksatta.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is offering digital marketing
courses and is promising to give job placement
assistance to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that while the advertiser may be providing
job placement assistance to their students for getting
jobs in relevant industries, the use of 100% numerical
is not relevant for "We Brandveda Promises to Give
you 100% Job Placement Assistance” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistance
claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The digital
display advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
45. @ 2011-C.2181 Gandhi Institute of Hotel
Management
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://sanfoundry.com)
(English) (14.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://sanfoundry.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is providing BBA and MBA
courses and is claiming that it provides placement
assistance to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the advertiser may be
providing placement assistance to their students for
getting jobs in relevant industry sectors, the use of
100% numerical is not relevant for “Placement
Assistance” claim. There cannot be a percentage
assigned to any assistance claim such as 40% or 80%
assistance. The use of “100%” as a descriptor in the
claim is misleading by implication and is likely to
lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
46. @ 2011-C.2184 Image Infotainment Ltd -
ICAT Design & Media College
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://jagranjosh.com)
(English) (15.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://jagranjosh.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s college is providing coaching for B.com
(H) in Accounts and Finance, and is claiming that it
provides placement assistance to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the advertiser may be
providing placement assistance to their students for
getting jobs in relevant industry sectors, the use of
100% numerical is not relevant for “Placement
Assistance” claim. There cannot be a percentage
assigned to any assistance claim such as 40% or 80%
assistance. The use of “100%” as a descriptor in the
claim is misleading by implication and is likely to
Recommendations – December 2020
lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
47. @ 2011-C.2199 Subzfresh – SubZfresh.com
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Chandigarh Edition,
Supplement Times of Chandigarh (English)
(30.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. All Products of Best Quality, Especially Garlic,
Pomegranates and Apples
2. Here you will get the best products at the right
price saving your time, money and effort
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that advertiser is promoting online platform which
provides a large variety of fruits and vegetables with
home delivery services.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims, “All
Products of Best Quality, Especially Garlic,
Pomegranates and Apples” and “Here you will get
the best products at the right price saving your time,
money and effort” were not substantiated with any
market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s online store versus other
online platforms providing similar products and
services, to prove that the products offered by the
advertiser are of better quality, and that their products
are better than the rest. The claims were also not
backed by a third-party validation. The claims are
misleading by exaggeration and are likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
48. @ 2011-C.2200 Tata Motors Ltd(*) – Tata
Tigor
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar, Satna Edition, Main
Issue (Hindi) (29.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India's Safest Sedan”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that advertiser is promoting their four wheeler car
(Tata Tigor) claiming it to be `India's Safest Sedan’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC settled that the claim, “India's
Safest Sedan” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s car brand versus
other car brands in India, to prove that their Sedan is
safer than the others, nor the claim was backed by a
third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
49. @ 2011-C.2201 Kalani Group (Treasure
Fantasy)
MEDIUM: EP Nai Duniya, Indore Edition, Main
Issue (English) (29.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 Township in Western Region of Indore”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
Recommendations – December 2020
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is in the business of real
estate and is promoting `Teasure Fantasy’ township
claiming it to be the `No. 1 Township in Western
region of Indore’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the leadership claim, “No.1
Township in Western Region of Indore” was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data, of the
advertiser’s township versus similar townships of
other real estate developers in western region of
Indore, to prove that their township project is in
leadership position (No.1) than the others. The claim
was also not backed by a third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
50. @ 2011-C.2202 Frontfoot Sports Management
Pvt. Ltd-Trophykart
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Tirchy Edition,
Supplement Times Business Awards(English)
(30.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India's First and Biggest Online Store for Procuring
the Trophies Awards and Corporate Gifts”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting online
platform for procuring gifts, trophies, sports specific
trophies and awards.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “India's First and
Biggest Online Store for Procuring the Trophies
Awards and Corporate Gifts” was not substantiated
with verifiable comparative data, of the advertiser’s
online store versus similar online stores in India
providing similar products, to prove that they are first
and biggest Online Store than the others. The claim
was also not backed by a third-party validation. The
claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely to
lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
51. @ 2011-C.2204 Sankar Kartik Netralaya (Dr
Manish Saxena & Dr Neha Saxena)
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Kanpur Edition,
Main issue(Hindi) (29.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Freedom from Glaucoma”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s eye centre is providing
treatment for Glaucoma. However, the advertiser did
not provide any details of the treatment procedure,
nor any details regarding the medicines used for
treatment of Glaucoma, and their approval status by
the regulatory authorities.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Freedom from
Glaucoma” was not substantiated with supporting
clinical evidence and treatment efficacy data of their
patients who were successfully treated for Glaucoma.
Recommendations – December 2020
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers especially those suffering from Glaucoma.
The print advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1,
1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
52. @ 2011-C.2205 Pulse Super Speciality
Hospital
MEDIUM: EP Prabhat Khabar, Ranchi Edition,
Main issue (Hindi) (05.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“First Choice of Doctors – Pulse Hospital”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is claiming their hospital
to be the first choice of Doctors. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint, and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “First Choice of Doctors-Pulse
Hospital” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s hospital and
other similar hospitals, to prove they are the first
choice of all doctors. The claim was also not backed
by a third-party validation. The claim is misleading
by exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
53. @ 2011-C.2235 Y-Axis Overseas Careers
MEDIUM: Digital Video,
(http://mxplayer.in)(English) (21.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 Immigration Company”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://mxplayer.in) and observed that the advertiser
is promoting overseas careers. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint, and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the leadership claim, “No.1 Immigration
Company” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s company and
other immigration companies, to prove that they are
in leadership position (No.1) than the others. The
claim was also not backed by a third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The digital display advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
54. @ 2011-C.2247 Chetna Vyasanmukati
Kendra
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat, Aurangabad Edition,
Supplement Hello Aurangabad (Marathi)
(04.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Awarded Maharashtra Government State Level
Rashtrapita Mahatma Gandhi VyasanmuktiSeva
Award”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
Recommendations – December 2020
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser’s centre is providing treatment for
addiction problems and is claiming to be `awarded
Maharashtra Government State Level Rashtrapita
Mahatma Gandhi VyasanmuktiSeva Award’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Maharashtra Government State Level Rashtrapita
Mahatma Gandhi VyasanmuktiSeva Award” was not
substantiated with copy of the award certificate,
details of the process for award selection, criteria for
granting the award, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
Medical centres / hospitals that were part of the
survey and the outcome of the survey. The source for
the claim was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code,
and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings
in Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
55. @ 2012-C.2249 Hearts Sanjivani Centre
Multimedical& Research Institut
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat, Nasik Edition, Supplement
Hello Nasik (Marathi) (29.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim Objected To:
“Complete Freedom from Heart Disease without
Operation, Without Surgery”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser is providing medical treatment for
all heart problems/diseases without operation or
surgery. However, the advertiser did not provide any
details of the treatment procedure, nor any details
regarding the medicines used for treatment of the
claimed diseases, and their approval status by the
regulatory authorities.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Complete Freedom from Heart Disease without
Operation, Without Surgery” was not substantiated
with any supporting clinical evidence and treatment
efficacy data of patients who were treated for heart
diseases. The claim is misleading by exaggeration
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of consumers particularly patients
suffering from Heart problems/ diseases. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
56. @ 2012-C.2262 East Coast Hospitals Ltd
MEDIUM: Dinakaran, Pondicherry Edition,
Supplement Thozhil Malar (Magazine)(English)
(25.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT: Claim objected to:
“Painless Labour”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing treatment for
pregnancy and child delivery without pain. However,
the advertiser did not provide any details of the
treatment procedure, nor any details regarding the
medicines used for treatment of painless delivery,
and their approval status by the regulatory
authorities.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“painless labour” was not substantiated with any
supporting clinical evidence and treatment efficacy
data of women who delivered children without any
other intervention such as pain killers/ local
anaesthesia or epidural injections. The claim omits
Recommendations – December 2020
the modalities of the delivery procedure. The claim
is misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers particularly pregnant women. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
57. @ 2012-C.2264 Apex Hospital
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan(*),Moradabad Edition,
Main Issue(Hindi) (19.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The Most Reliable Centre for Laparoscopy
Operation in Western Uttar Pradesh”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser’s Hospital is providing treatment
for Laparoscopy.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “The
Most Reliable Centre for Laparoscopy Operation in
Western Uttar Pradesh” was not substantiated with
any market survey data or with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s hospital versus
other hospitals providing treatment for Laparoscopy
in western Uttar Pradesh, to prove that their centre is
more reliable than the others, nor the claim was
backed by a third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
58. @ 2012-C.2266 Citizen Solar Private Limited
– Citizen Solar range of Products
MEDIUM: Gujarat Samachar, Vadodara Edition,
Main Issue(English) (21.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The Most Reliable Solar Panel for House, Office
and Factory”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that advertiser is promoting their solar panels
products.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “The
Most Reliable Solar Panel for House, Office and
Factory” was not substantiated with any market
survey data or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s product versus other manufacturers of
solar panels, to prove that their product is more
reliable than the others, nor the claim was backed by
a third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
59. @ 2012-C.2267 Gangotri Solar System Pvt.
Ltd - Gangotri Solar Range of Products
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan(*), Nainital Edition, Main
Issue(Hindi) (10.11.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Join with Uttarakhand's Most Reliable Solar Brand
2. Uttarakhand's Fastest Growing Solar Company
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
Recommendations – December 2020
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that advertiser is promoting their solar range of
products. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint and in the absence of any comments or
response from the advertiser, the CCC settled that the
claim, “Join with Uttarakhand's Most Reliable Solar
Brand” with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
product versus other Solar brands in Uttarakhand, to
prove that their solar brand is more reliable than the
others. Claim, “Uttarakhand's Fastest Growing
Solar Company” was not substantiated with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s Solar
company, versus other such Solar companies in
Uttarakhand, to prove that they are growing faster
than the others. The claims were not backed by a
third-party validation. The claims are misleading by
exaggeration and are likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
60. @ 2012-C.2268 March Imaging & Diagnostic
Center
MEDIUM: Rajasthan Patrika(*), Bikaner Edition,
Main Issue(Hindi) (04.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Most Advance Diagnostic Centre that Provide
Advance Clinical Capabilities for Diagnostic
Assurance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement. Upon
careful consideration of the complaint and in the
absence of any response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Most Advance Diagnostic
Centre that Provide Advance Clinical Capabilities for
Diagnostic Assurance” was not substantiated with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
diagnostic centre versus other similar diagnostic
centres, to prove that they are more advanced than
the rest, nor the claim was backed by a third party
validation. The claim is misleading by exaggeration
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
61. @ 2012-C.2272 Ziva Embryology and
Fertility Institute
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Hyderabad Edition,
Supplement Healthcare Times (Tabloid)(English)
(10.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Choose the Best
2. Hyderabad's Most Experienced Team
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s treatment centre is
providing treatments in field of fertility, andrology as
well as holistic care.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Choose the Best”
was not substantiated with any market survey data or
with verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
hospital versus other similar hospitals, to prove that
they are better than the rest.
Claim, “Hyderabad's Most Experienced Team” was
not substantiated with verifiable comparative data of
the advertiser’s hospital versus other similar hospitals
in Hyderabad, to prove that their team engaged in the
advertiser’s hospital is more experienced than the
others.
Recommendations – December 2020
The claims were not backed by a third party
validation. The claims are misleading by
exaggeration and are likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
62. @ 2012-C.2273 American Oncology Institute
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Vizag Edition, Main
Issue(English) (11.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Best Cancer Hospital in India”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s hospital is providing
treatment for cancer.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Best Cancer Hospital
in India” was not substantiated with any market
survey data or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s hospital versus other cancer hospitals in
India, to prove that they are better than the rest in
providing treatment for cancer, nor the claim was
backed by a third party validation. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
63. @ 2012-C.2282 Eco Crystal Pvt Ltd – Eco
Crystal Brand Water Purifiers
MEDIUM: EP Hindu(*), Coimbatore Edition, Main
Issue (English) (30.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. World's Best Water Purifier in India
2. World’s Best Quality
3. India’s first magnetized pure drinking water
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the Advertiser is promoting Eco Crystal
Brand of water purifier.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claims, “World's Best Water
Purifier in India” and “World’s Best Quality” were
not substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data for worldwide, of the
advertiser’s brand versus other water purifier brands,
to prove that the quality of their water purifier, and
their water purifier is better than the others. The
claims were also not backed by an independent third
party validation.
Claim, “India’s first magnetized pure drinking water”
was not substantiated with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s product versus other water
purifiers in India, to prove that the advertiser’s
product is the first in India to come up with
magnetized pure drinking water. Also, the claim was
not backed by a third party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
64. @ 2012-C.2283 Guru KripaJagrati Hospital
& Research Centre Pvt
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Allahabad Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (12.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Best Treatment of Infertility”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
Recommendations – December 2020
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s hospital is providing
treatment for Infertility.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Best Treatment of
Infertility” was not substantiated with any market
survey data or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s hospital versus other similar hospitals, to
prove that they are better than the rest in providing
treatment for infertility, nor the claim was backed by
a third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
65. @ 2012-C.2285 Popular Multispecialty
Hospital
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Varanasi Edition,
Main Issue (English) (01.11.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Purvanchal's Best Hospital & Well Equipped
Hospital”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s hospital is providing
treatment for various ailments.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Purvanchal's Best
Hospital & Well Equipped Hospital” was not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
hospital versus other similar hospitals in Purvanchal,
to prove that they are better than the rest in providing
treatment, nor the claim was backed by a third party
validation. The claim is misleading by exaggeration
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
66. @ 2012-C.2286 Shuddhi Nasha Mukti Evam
Punarvas Kendra (Shuddhi Deaddiction
Center)
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*),Bhopal Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (03.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“MP's Best De-Addiction Centre”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s treatment centre is
providing treatment for addiction.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “MP's Best De-
Addiction Centre” was not substantiated with any
market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s treatment centre versus other
similar treatment centres in Madhya Pradesh, to
prove that they are better than the rest, nor the claim
was backed by a third party validation. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
67. @ 2012-C.2288 Upkar Developers
Recommendations – December 2020
MEDIUM: Prajavani, Bangalore Edition, Main
Issue(English) (17.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Awarded as Best Plotted Developer 2020”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is in the business of real
estate, and is promoting their various residential
projects. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint and in the absence of any comments or
response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “Awarded as Best Plotted Developer
2020” was not substantiated with copy of the award
certificate, details of the process for award selection,
criteria for granting the award, survey methodology,
parameters considered, questionnaires used, names of
other real estate developers that were part of the
survey, the outcome of the survey, and the details of
the awarding body. The source for the claim was not
indicated in the advertisement
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code and
ASCI Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
68. @ 2012-C.2289 TIL-Trisha Infrastructure
Ltd - Trisha Solar Panel
MEDIUM: Divya Bhaskar(*), Vadodara Edition,
Main Issue (Gujarati) (10.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Best Price
2. Best Quality Assurance
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting their solar
panel product claiming it to be the best in price and
quality.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims, “Best
Price” and “Best Quality Assurance”, were not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s solar
panel brand verses similar solar panel brands, to
prove that their product pricing and quality is better
than the rest, nor the claims were backed by a third-
party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
69. @ 2012-C.2290 Dubey Clinic (Dr. Sunil
Kumar Dubey)
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Patna Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (18.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Honored with Bharat Gaurav Award - Government
of India”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting his clinic
Recommendations – December 2020
and is claiming to be `awarded with Bharat Gaurav
Award by Government of India’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Honored with Bharat
Gaurav Award - Government of India” was not
substantiated with copy of the award certificate,
details of the process for selection for the award,
criteria for granting the award, survey methodology,
parameters considered, questionnaires used, names of
similar clinics that were part of the survey, the
outcome of the survey, and the details of the
awarding body. The source for the claim was not
indicated in the advertisement
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code and
ASCI Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
70. @ 2012-C.2291 Ariston Thermo India Private
Limited- Racold Omnis Water Heater
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Pune Edition,
Supplement Pune Times(English) (31.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Winner of Good Design Award”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting a water
heater product claiming it to be `awarded as winner
for good design’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Winner of Good
Design Award” was not substantiated with copy of
the award certificate, details of the process for
selection of the award, criteria for granting the award,
survey methodology, parameters considered,
questionnaires used, names of other water heater
brands that were part of the survey, the outcome of
the survey, and the details about the awarding body.
The source for the claim was not mentioned in the
advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code and
ASCI Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
71. @ 2012-C.2292 Dhanwantri E-commerce
Private Limited (Dhanwantris.com)
MEDIUM: EP Amar Ujala(*), Moradabad Edition,
Main Issue(Hindi) (25.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India's Largest Online Market”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting online
platform for shopping and is claiming to be `India’s
largest online market’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “India's Largest
Online Market” was not substantiated with any
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s online
shopping platform versus other online shopping
platforms in India, to prove that they have a larger
online market than the others, nor the claim was
backed by a third party validation. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
72. @ 2012-C.2294 Skora Coatings (Skora
Paints)
Recommendations – December 2020
MEDIUM: EP Daily Sakal(*), Satara Edition, Main
Issue (Marathi) (25.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India's No.1 Hydrophobic & Breathable Paint”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting wall paints
under the brand name `Skora’ claiming it to be
`India's No.1 hydrophobic & breathable Paint’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the leadership claim, “India's
No.1 Hydrophobic & Breathable Paint” was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s brand and other paint brands in India, to
prove that their brand is in leadership position for
being Hydrophobic & Breathable paint. The claim
was also not backed by a third-party validation. The
claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely to
lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
73. @ 2012-C.2296 Freshtohome Foods Private
Limited- (freshtohome.com)
MEDIUM: EP Mathrubhumi(*), Palakkad Edition,
Main Issue (Malayalam) (01.11.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India's No.1 Fresh Fish & Meat Home Delivery
Service”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing home
delivery service of fish and meat and is claiming to
be `India’s No.1 home delivery service’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the leadership claim, “India's
No.1 Fresh Fish & Meat Home Delivery Service”
was not substantiated with verifiable comparative
data of the market share by value/volume, of the
advertiser’s business of home delivery service and
other similar home delivery services in India, to
prove that the advertiser is in leadership position
(No.1). The claim was also not backed by a third-
party validation. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
74. @ 2012-C.2298 Anand Detergents-New
(Anand’s No.1 Premium Detergent Powder)
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Jabalpur Edition,
Main Issue(Hindi) (19.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 in Name and Work”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting products
such as detergent, liquid detergent, hand wash as well
as job work services and plastic materials.
Recommendations – December 2020
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the leadership claim, “No.1 in
Name and Work” was not substantiated with
verifiable comparative data of the market share by
value/volume of the advertiser’s brand and other
similar detergent powder brands, to prove that the
advertiser’s brand is in leadership position (No.1) for
its name and work. The claim was also not backed by
a third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
75. @ 2012-C.2299 Rajam Industries Private
Limited – Oorvasi Range of Products
MEDIUM: EP Dinakaran, Tirunelveli Edition,
Supplement Thozhil Malar(Tamil) (22.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 Premium Detergent Powder”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting their
detergent powder product. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the leadership claim, “No.1 Premium Detergent
Powder” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the market share by
value/volume, of the advertiser’s brand of detergent
powder and similar detergent powder brands, to
prove that their brand is in leadership position (No.1).
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
76. @ 2012-C.2300 Saatvik Green Energy (P) Ltd
MEDIUM: Divya Bhaskar(*), Ahmedabad Edition,
Main Issue (Gujarati) (20.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“North India's No.1”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is solar Panel
Manufacturing Company. Upon careful consideration
of the complaint and in the absence of any response
from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the
leadership claim, “North India's No.1” was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
market share by value/volume, of the advertiser’s
company and other similar solar Panel Manufacturing
Companies in North India, to prove that the
advertiser is in leadership position (No.1). The claim
was also not backed by a third-party validation. The
claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely to
lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
AYUSH Complaints
77. @ 2012-C.2232 Ayurvedic Clinic
MEDIUM: EP Amar Ujala(*), New Delhi Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (05.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Quit Alcohol without the Knowledge
2. Successfully Quit every addiction such as
Alcohol, Charas, Smake, Afim, Bhaang, Gaanja,
Fluid, etc
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
Recommendations – December 2020
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser is claiming that an addicted person
can quit alcohol, drugs, or other similar addiction
through their ayurvedic medicines. The CCC
observed that the advertiser did not provide any
details of the treatment procedure, nor any details
regarding the medicines used for treatment of the
claimed diseases, and their approval status by the
regulatory authorities.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims, “Quit
Alcohol without the Knowledge” and “Successfully
and Quit every addiction such as Alcohol, Charas,
Smake, Afim, Bhaang, Gaanja, Fluid, etc” were not
substantiated with any supporting clinical evidence
and treatment efficacy data of the patients who were
successfully treated for alcohol and other drugs
addiction. The claims are misleading by exaggeration
and are likely to lead to widespread disappointment
in the minds of consumers particularly people
suffering from these addictions.
The print advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1,
1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
78. @ 2011-C.2233 Ayurvedpuram
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan(*), Allahabad Edition,
Main issue (Hindi) (29.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. North India's best private ''Kshar-Sutra/ Anus
diseases (Gudarog) Institute
2. Honoured with the Best Ayurvedic (Kshar-Sutra)
Doctor
3. Achiever Award 2016 and Health Care Achievers
Award 2019- Rewarded & Honoured by Res. Health
Minister, Prayagraj
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that the advertiser is providing treatment for various
diseases like piles, fissure, fistula, constipation,
colitis etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “North
India's best private Kshar-Sutra/ Anus diseases
(Gudarog) Institute’’ was not substantiated with any
market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s institute versus other such
medical institute in North India, to prove that they are
better than the rest in providing treatment for the
claimed diseases, nor the claim was backed by a third
party validation.
The claims, ‘Honoured with the Best Ayurvedic
(Kshar-Sutra) Doctor” and “Achiever Award 2016
and Health Care Achievers Award 2019- Rewarded
& Honoured by Res. Health Minister, Prayagraj”
were not substantiated with copy of the award
certificates, details of the process for award selection,
criteria for granting the awards, survey methodology,
parameters considered, questionnaires used, names of
other ayurvedic doctors that were part of the survey,
the outcome of the survey, and details about the
awarding body. The source for the claims was also
not mentioned.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4, and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint
was UPHELD.
79. @2011-C.2245 Jagat Pharma (Isotine Eye
Drops)
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://hindustantimes.com*) (English) (10.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Don’t blame your age, Get vision back naturally,
say no to surgery!”
Recommendations – December 2020
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://hindustantimes.com*) and observed that the
advertiser is promoting `Isoneuron capsule’ and
`Isotine eye drops’ by claiming that it gives vision
back naturally. However the advertiser did not
provide product specific information such as copy of
product approval license, product label, and product
composition details.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “Don’t
blame your age, Get vision back naturally, say no to
surgery!”, was not substantiated with clinical
evidence of product efficacy. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
grave disappointment in the minds of consumers.
The digital display advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
80. @ 2012-C.2256 Pankaj Clinic
(Dr.RamendraDubey)
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Indore Edition, Main
Issue (Hindi) (29.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Immediate freedom from Piles
2. Cure Piles from the root in 5 to 7 Days
3. Cure Fistula, Fissure, Pilonidal Sinus and Rectal
Prolapse Quickly from the Root without Surgery
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that advertiser is providing treatment for
Piles, Fistula, Fissure, Pilonidal Sinus and Rectal
Prolapse without surgery. However the advertiser
did not provide any details of the treatment
procedure, nor any details regarding the medicines
used for treatment of the claimed diseases, and their
approval status by the regulatory authorities.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims,
“Immediate freedom from Piles”, “Cure Piles from
the root in 5 to 7 Days”, and “Cure Fistula, Fissure,
Pilonidal Sinus and Rectal Prolapse Quickly from the
Root without Surgery” were not substantiated with
any supporting clinical evidence and treatment
efficacy data of their patients who were treated for
the claimed diseases. The claims are misleading by
exaggeration and are likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers
particularly patients suffering from Piles, Fistula,
Fissure, Pilonidal Sinus and Rectal Prolapse. The
print advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4,
and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
81. @ 2012-C.2257 KBS Herbal (India) Ltd –
(Dadwin Range of Products)
MEDIUM: Punjab Kesari, Chandigarh Edition, Main
Issue (Hindi) (04.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim Objected To:
“Only Solution for Ringworm – Dadwin Lotion”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
Recommendations – December 2020
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting `Dadwin
lotion’ and claiming that it is the only solution for
Ringworm. However the advertiser did not provide
product specific information such as copy of product
approval license, product label, and product
composition details.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “Only
Solution for Ringworm – Dadwin Lotion”, was not
substantiated with clinical evidence of product
efficacy. The claim is misleading by exaggeration
and is likely to lead to grave disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
82. Suo Motu 2012-C.2326 Hamdard
Laboratories (India) (Hamdard Joshina)
MEDIUM: YouTube(*)
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5fGFO6C1WtE)
ADVERTISING AGENCY: MOM Content Studio
LLP
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims & Visuals Objected to:
1. Visual of a person with red spikes on this head
resembles coronavirus
2. Voice Over states “Just a sneeze or cough, people
will think of quarantine and ventilator
Complaint:
ASCI observes in the current Covid-19 pandemic
situation, the visual resembling the Coronavirus on
the head of a person accompanied by the audio in the
TVC viz. "Just a sneeze or cough, people will think
of quarantine and ventilator”, is misleading by
implication that the syrup cures or treats Coronavirus.
As we understand the product is only meant for relief
from Coughing, Sneezing and itchy throat.
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “More so COVID-19 virus has
not only depicted in images having only red spikes
but in different colours including blue, yellow,
saffron etc. and actual image of the said virus is
changing therefore claiming that red spike resembles
of COVID-19 virus only is not correct propositions.
The advertisement do not claim at any time that it
treats COVID-19. It is true state of affair that people
get scared just on a sneeze or cough now day which
actually is not the symptom of COVID-19 as notified
by concerned Government agencies time and again.
Therefore use of the expression JUST before a sneeze
or cough clears the cloud and there remain no
ambiguity among the viewer of the post that the
product treats cough and cold.”
Advertiser in their response showed some images of
COVID-19 virus which are available on digital
platforms. Advertiser also provided a copy of the
advertisement, copy of the storyboard, and front and
back of product pack.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the YouTube advertisement
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5fGFO6C1WtE)
and considered the advertiser’s response. The
advertiser is promoting a herbal cough and cold
remedy – `Hamdard Joshina’ meant for coughing,
sneezing, and itchy throat. The visual shows a man
with red spikes on this head, voice over says
“……..Ek cheenkh yah khaansi aur logo ke dimaak
mein quarantine aur ventilator ghoomey lagega”.
However, the advertisement does not carry any
disclaimers.
The CCC observed that the visual depiction of the
person having red spikes on his head had an odd
resemblance with coronavirus, despite the fact that
the same was intended to represent a normal viral
cough and cold. Further the use of words `quarantine’
and `ventilator’ in the advertisement directly relates
to the COVID-19. The CCC felt that given the
current pandemic situation, a common individual
viewing the advertisement could relate the visual
depiction of a person having coronavirus like red
spikes with the disease COVID-19 itself. The
imagery and use of words like `quarantine’ and
`ventilator’ in all likelihood could create a
misinterpretation in the minds of consumers, who
may think that the product may cure COVID-19. The
CCC opined that in the current context a disclaimer
would make it clear to the members of the common
public that the advertised product is not for COVID-
19.
Based on these observations, the CCC concluded that
there is an element of puffery and exaggeration
which is evident in the advertisement, however, it is
not likely to mislead or cause grave or widespread
disappointment amongst consumers. This complaint
was NOT UPHELD
However, in view of the current COVID-19
pandemic situation, the CCC recommended that the
advertiser should include an appropriate disclaimer in
Recommendations – December 2020
favour of the public.
FSSAI Complaints:
83. @ 2011-C.1736 Arsh Bread And Bakery
Private Limited - King Bread Range of
Products
MEDIUM: EP Amar Ujala(*), Meerut Edition, Main
Issue (Hindi) (18.08.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
“Meerut's No.1 King Bread”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they availed and
subsequently requested for an extension of time to
submit their detailed response to the objection raised
in the complaint. The deadlines stipulated by
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) procedure
exist keeping in mind the immediate and widespread
impact that advertisements have on the public.
Consequently, any action which is needed to be taken
with respect to the same is required to be prompt and
urgent. It is for this purpose that the deadlines, as
stipulated, are set for advertisers/broadcasters etc.
and the CCC itself makes it a priority to deal with
every complaint before it as expeditiously as
possible. However, as a special gesture, the
advertiser was granted an extension of additional five
business days to respond.
The advertiser requested for a second extension
which was not granted by the ASCI Secretariat.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting a food
product – King Bread and claiming their brand to be
No.1 in Meerut. However, the advertiser did not
provide any verifiable comparative data or market
research data to prove that their range of bread
products are selling more than all other similar bread
brands in Meerut in terms of value or volume share,
or through an independent third-party validation.
In the absence of claim support data, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Meerut's No.1 King
Bread” was not substantiated to prove that King
Bread is in leadership position (No.1) than all the rest
in Meerut. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters I.1 and I.4 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
Post the CCC meeting, the advertiser confirmed that
the said advertisement has been withdrawn and the
claim will not be repeated again in their future
advertisements.
84. @ 2011-C.2234 Voltedge Marketing Pvt. Ltd
– Proathlix Protein Bar
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://deccanchronicle.com)(English) (16.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India’s No 1 Brand in Sports Nutrition”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek further
guidance, which they did not avail nor did they
submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that the advertiser
did not submit their response addressing the
complaint prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://deccanchronicle.com) and observed that the
advertiser is promoting a food product- `Proathlix
protein bar’ claiming that it is `India’s No.1 brand in
sports nutrition’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim “India’s No 1 Brand in
Sports Nutrition” was not substantiated with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s brand
of protein bar and other similar brands of nutritional
protein bars, to prove that they are in leadership
position (No.1) than all the rest, or through an
independent third party validation. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
grave disappointment in the minds of consumers. The
digital display advertisement contravened Chapters
1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint
was UPHELD.
85. @ 2011-C.2237 Herbs Nutriproducts Pvt Ltd
– Pure Nutrition Range of Products
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://medicaldaily.com) (English) (04.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Recommendations – December 2020
Claims objected to:
1. Pure Nutrition Best Supplements
2. Those Prone to Frequent Infections & Those who
want to slow down Ageing
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://medicaldaily.com) and noted that the
advertiser is promoting nutrition supplements. The
CCC observed that the advertiser did not provide
product specific information such as copy of product
approval license, product label, and product
composition details.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “Pure
Nutrition Best Supplements” was not substantiated
with any market survey data or with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s nutrition
supplements versus other such nutrition supplements
brands, to prove that they are better than all the rest,
nor the claim was backed by a third-party validation.
Claim, ”Those Prone to Frequent Infections & Those
who want to slow down Ageing” was not
substantiated with product efficacy data.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The digital display
advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
86. @ 2011-C.2238 Guardian Healthcare Services
Pvt. Ltd (GNC) – GNC Range of Products
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://namemeaningsdictionary.com) (English)
(10.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Stock up on these delicious meal replacements and
other dietary solutions to be in shape”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC noted that the advertiser deals in wide
range of health products like protein supplements,
omega supplements, and skin and heath care
supplements.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://namemeaningsdictionary.com) and observed
that the advertiser is promoting their product as
delicious meal replacements and other dietary
solutions to be in shape. The advertiser did not
provide product specific information such as copy of
product approval license, product label, and product
composition details.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “Stock
up on these delicious meal replacements and other
dietary solutions to be in shape”, was not
substantiated with clinical evidence of product
efficacy. Moreover, it would create a confusion in
minds of unaware consumers, who may presume that
the advertiser’s products would enable them to get in
shape and misunderstand to not consume any other
food/ meal thereby affecting their nutrition and
overall heath. The claim is misleading by implication
and exaggeration, and is likely to lead to grave
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The
digital display advertisement contravened Chapters
1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint
was UPHELD.
87. @ 2011-C.2239 Patankar Farm Products
(Spices, Rice, Oil, Dal & Honey)
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
(http://pakwangali.in) (English) (09.11.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Organic Food Products
2. 100% Organic Best Quality Food Products
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendations – December 2020
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail and
submitted their written response. Advertiser stated
that “the said advertisement was not given by them in
the site mentioned. They are not claiming of having
certified organic products but they are organic.
Quality of food is a lot about perception also. There
are many ads which say best quality.”
Advertiser further sought for guidance from ASCI
Secretariat on the claims made. On their request,
they were provided with an opportunity to discuss
their queries via telecon, which was not availed by
them.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the digital display advertisement
(http://pakwangali.in) and considered the advertiser’s
response. The CCC observed that the advertiser did
not provide any product specific information such as
copy of product label, product approval license,
product composition details, nor any organic
certification for their advertised product as per FSSAI
requirements. Advertiser also did not provide
supporting evidence to prove that the product fulfils
the FSSAI criteria to claim ‘100% organic’. Upon
careful consideration of the complaint and in the
absence of evidence of their product qualified to be
100% organic, by a certifying body, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “100% Organic Food
Products” was not substantiated.
Claim, “100% Organic Best Quality Food Products”
was not substantiated with market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s food
product/s versus other similar organic food products
to prove that their product/s are better in quality than
all the rest, nor the claim was backed by an
independent third-party report.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to grave or widespread disappointment
in the minds of consumers. The digital display
advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
88. @ 2011-C.2242 Kellogg India Pvt. Ltd.(*)
(Kellogg’s Corn Flakes and Kellogg’s Chocos)
MEDIUM: OTT Platform – Hotstar App(*)
YouTube(*)
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nApIb2Zlfo8)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Superior to breakfast”
Complaint:
“I am a Food Technologist with M.Tech in Food
Technology. Currently involved in freelance
consulting for food companies. There was a video
advertisement in tamil in an app called Hotstar
claiming that the Kellogs chocos and cornflakes are
superior than breakfast. The celebrity in the
advertisement says kellogs is superior than breakfast.
Need to know how will it be superior than breakfast.
Yes I am referring to the claim mentioned in the
shared YouTube video.”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered
an opportunity to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat
to seek further guidance, which they did not avail and
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “They are not saying that
'Kellogg's is superior to breakfast" nor do they draw
parallels with any other breakfast options. The only
intent of the TVC is to convey the emotional value
breakfast has for a mother. It's much more than just a
spoonful of breakfast, it's her aspirations for her
child and her/his daily triumphs.” Advertiser further
sought for IR of the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to resolve the
complaint under IR mechanism or to submit their
response. Advertiser did not opt for IR but requested
for an extension to provide their submissions. The
deadlines stipulated by Consumer Complaints
Council (CCC) procedure exist keeping in mind the
immediate and widespread impact that
advertisements have on the public. Consequently, any
action which is needed to be taken with respect to the
same is required to be prompt and urgent. It is for this
purpose that the deadlines, as stipulated, are set for
advertisers/broadcasters etc. and the CCC itself
makes it a priority to deal with every complaint
before it as expeditiously as possible. However, as a
special gesture, the advertiser was granted an
extension of additional three business days to
respond.
On the advertiser’s request they were provided with
an opportunity to discuss their submission via telecon
with the ASCI Secretariat.
Advertiser in their response stated that “In the
context of the entire TVC they are using a creative
concept communicated through a creative rendition
“breakfast se badhkar” to represent a mother’s
Recommendations – December 2020
aspirations for her child to be able to do every-day
activities and the psychological and sensorial
satisfaction and enjoyment that comes from relishing
their food. TVC uses the word ‘Melaandhu’ which is
the closest Tamil equivalent word to ‘badhkar” in
Hindi and does not translate to “superior”. Google
translation shows that “melaandhu” means “more”
in English language. This clearly indicates that the
sentence reads as ‘More than Breakfast’ which when
heard, read and understood in context of the entire
TVC which depicts different examples of a mother’s
emotion while feeding her child, suggests that it is
not just breakfast that she is serving, but more than
breakfast (including her love, care, affection).”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided – (1)
Storyboard of the TVC in Hindi with supers, (2)
Storyboard of the TVC in English with supers, (3)
Summary of the creative evaluation of the TVC, (4)
YouTube link of the advertisement in Hindi, (5) Email
from the Agency for reference to the creative
evaluation test of the TVC referred to in their
response.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed the
advertisement appeared on OTT Platform – Hotstar
App and the YouTube advertisement
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nApIb2Zlfo8),mi
n Hindi and Tamil, and considered the advertiser’s
response.
The CCC noted that on a telephonic conversation with
the ASCI Secretariat the advertiser clarified that the
word `badhkar’ was used to represent mother’s
aspiration for her child. The CCC discussed that the
word `badhkar’ may not be intended to be used in a
context of superiority of breakfast items and in overall
presentation of the advertisement and that the same
could possibly reflect the mother’s love for her child.
However, the claim “Breakfast se badhkar” makes a
direct comparison of the advertiser’s product with
breakfast and hence, the claim is classified to be a
superiority claim.
The CCC concluded that the claim, “Breakfast se
badhkar” is directly comparing to breakfast which was
not proven. The said claim was inadequately
substantiated. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to grave or
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The OTT Platform – Hotstar App and the
YouTube advertisement contravened Chapters I.1, I.4
and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
89. @ 2012-C.2258 Bellapierre India – Fitmark
Naturalz Keto Health Supplement
MEDIUM: EP Amar Ujala(*), Chandigarh Edition,
Supplement My City (Hindi) (02.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Sure Shot Boon for Men and Women to Reduce
Weight
2. Best Keto Health Supplement Capsule
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC noted that the advertiser deals in wide
range of products like makeup, perfumes, fashion
accessories and face, body and hair care products
including products like heath supplements and also
products like anti-ageing, skin lightening,
moisturising and other skin requirements. The CCC
viewed the print advertisement and observed that the
advertiser is promoting their Keto Health Supplement
(Capsule) claiming it to be the `best’ and a `Sure Shot
Boon for Men and Women to Reduce Weight’. The
advertiser did not provide product specific
information such as copy of product approval license,
product label, and product composition details.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “Best
Keto Health Supplement Capsule” was not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s heath
supplement capsule versus other similar heath
supplements capsules, to prove that their product is
better than all the rest, nor the claim was backed by a
third-party validation.
Claim, “Sure Shot Boon for Men and Women to
Reduce Weight and Best Keto Health Supplement
Capsule” was not substantiated with clinical evidence
of product efficacy.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to grave disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD
90. @ 2012-C.2260 Ansika Trading Pvt Ltd –
Nutty Nest Nuts for Days (Range of Cashews)
Recommendations – December 2020
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Trichy Edition,
Supplement Times Business Awards (English)
(30.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Nuts for Days Brings you The Healthiest Cashews
at one of the Best Rates!
2. Meet this Year’s Healthiest Budget Snack Brand
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting various
flavour of Cashew Nuts as a natural and unprocessed
snack and has claimed that their cashews are
healthiest Cashews being offered at best rates, and
also that their brand is `Healthiest Budget Snack
Brand’ of this year.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claims, “The Healthiest
Cashews at one of the Best Rates” and “Meet this
Year’s Healthiest Budget Snack Brand” were not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
cashew nuts versus other brands of cashew nuts, to
prove that their product is healthier and is better
priced, and healthiest budget snack brand, than the
others, nor the claims were backed by a third party
validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
91. @ 2012-C.2261 Poncho Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. –
Mojo Pizza
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Gurgaon Edition,
Supplement Gurgaon Times (English) (10.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India's Highest Rated Pizza Delivery Chain”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and noted
that advertiser has 120+ stores across India for pizza
delivery. The advertiser has claimed to be the` India’s
Highest Rated Pizza Delivery Chain’ and displayed
their ratings on three apps namely Zomato, Play store
and app store.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“India’s Highest Rated Pizza Delivery Chain’’ was
not substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s, pizza
delivery chain with other such pizza delivery chains,
to prove that they are rated higher than all the rest in
pizza delivery, nor the claim was backed by a third-
party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
2012-CCC.25
Complaint for Re-Examination:
92. Suo Motu 2010-C.1567 Brown- Forman India
Private Limited- (Jack Daniel's Merchandise)
MEDIUM:OTT - Disney Plus Hotstar(*)
(15.10.2020)
YouTube (*) (https://www. youtube.com/watch?v
=B1JzZ19MWTU)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Complaint:
Recommendations – December 2020
“Jack Daniel’s Merchandise advertisement shows
communicating a new tagline of Jack Daniel’s “make
it count”
Objections:
1. “The advertisement appears to be a surrogate ad for
Jack Daniel’s”
2. “It is a violation of Guidelines for Qualification of
Brand Extension Product or Service”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the TVC and observed that the
advertiser who is in the business of selling alcoholic
beverages is promoting Jack Daniel’s, a liquor brand
through the ad that starts with three girls on a bench
near a lake and suddenly one of their phone rings, she
answers it and throws it into the lake. The scene ends
with a voiceover, “I always wanted to do that”. The
ad flows into two more frames, one in which a couple
is dancing and showing their moves and the other in
which a man messes/scratches the vinly record on the
turntable while music is playing and catches the
attention of others. Both frames ending with the
voiceover, “aways wanted to do that”. The ad finally
ends with a statement, make it count.
Advertiser did not provide the annual market sales
data of the product advertised, required licenses and
certificates as proof of their brand extension product
being registered with appropriate Government
authorities, proof of the in-store availability of the
product being at least 10% of the leading brand in the
category the product competes as measured in metro
cities where the product is advertised, and a valid
certificate from an independent organization for
distribution and sales turnover. In the absence of this
data, the CCC concluded that the advertisement
depicting the brand name – Jack Daniel’s
Merchandise is a surrogate advertisement for
promotion of a liquor product - Jack Daniel’s.
The CCC viewed the OTT advertisement and
carefully considered all submissions made and found
that there are no overt liquor cues in the
advertisement and thus content was acceptable and
not in breach of the ASCI code.
However, there was no evidence provided to
substantiate product distribution and sales turnover as
per the ASCI guidelines. There was no data
supporting the in store availability of the product
being at 10% of the leading brand in the category
where the product competes as measured in metro
cities where the product is advertised. Similarly, there
was no CA certificate to show a sales turnover of Rs.
5 cr/annum nationally or Rs. 1cr/annum per state
where distribution has been established. On the basis
of the documents on record, the CCC concluded that
the Advertiser has not been able to adequately
substantiate that it is a genuine line extension
product. The ad contravened the ASCI guidelines for
Qualification of Brand Extension Product or Service.
It was found in violation of Chapter III, clause 3.6 (a)
of the ASCI code. The complaint was UPHELD.
CCC RECOMMENDATION ON RE-
EXAMINATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail but replied
requesting for an extension of seven days to submit
their response.
The deadlines stipulated by Consumer Complaints
Council (CCC) procedure exist keeping in mind the
immediate and widespread impact that
advertisements have on the public. Consequently, any
action which is needed to be taken with respect to the
same is required to be prompt and urgent. It is for this
purpose that the deadlines, as stipulated, are set for
advertisers/broadcasters etc, and the CCC itself
makes it a priority to deal with every complaint
before it as expeditiously as possible. Hence the
advertiser was not granted an extension.
In the absence of the advertiser’s response prior to
the due date, the matter was examined by the CCC on
the basis of the materials available then and an
exparte decision was taken.
As the advertiser’s response was received post the
CCC meeting, they were offered a `Re-examination
procedure’ and were advised to seek a Review of the
CCC decision.
On receiving the CCC recommendation, the
advertiser submitted their response for Re-
examination which stated that “Jack Daniel’s
Recommendations – December 2020
Properties, Inc. (“JDPI”) is the owner of trademark
registrations for the trademark JACK DANIEL’S and
its variants in the relevant classes for products sold
under the Jack Daniel’s Merchandise brand like
clothing, footwear, bags, etc. According to
information provided by the licensee, between
November 2019 until end of November 2020, there
has been sizeable sales volume of the Jack Daniel’s
Merchandise by the licensee to BFI affiliates,
distributors and third party customers nationally
which amount to around USD 180,000/- (approx.
INR 1.33 Crore). Of these, around USD 154,400/-
(approx. INR 1.14 Crore) sales were in the state of
Haryana. The products under the Jack Daniel’s
Merchandise brand are sold through a mix of online
and physical channels in India, and is available on e-
commerce websites like Flipkart where it is sold
pursuant to execution of a sales agreement between
JDPI’s licensee and Flipkart. This merchandise is
also sold in various retail outlets. It is submitted that
given the very short window of time in which BFI has
been able to effect sales and distribution of its brand
merchandise due to the reasons discussed above, it is
currently not possible to conduct any meaningful
independent third party research to certify the
distribution and sales turnover of the Jack Daniel’s
Merchandise products.”
Advertiser in their response provided an illustrative
list of the relevant trademark registrations, and
illustrative screenshots from Flipkart.
Further as claim support data, the advertiser provided
– (1) their response of 20 November 2020, (2) Order
dated 23 March, 2020 passed by The Hon’able
Supreme Court In “In Re: Cognizance For Extension
Of Limitation, Suo Motu Wp (C) No. 3/2020, (3)
Registration certificates of the trademarks, (4)
Screenshots of e-commerce websites and photos of
the Jack Daniel’s Merchandise products in physical
stores.
The CCC viewed the TVC and the YouTube
advertisement (https://www.
youtube.com/watch?v=B1JzZ19MWTU) and
considered the advertiser’s response for Re-
examination with the supporting data provided by
them.
The CCC observed that the advertiser provided sales
data and other related information for consideration.
Their products under the Jack Daniel’s Merchandise
brand were sold through online and physical channels
in India. They were available on e-commerce
websites like Flipkart and were also sold in various
retail outlets. The CCC also noted the advertiser’s
assertion that between November 2019 until end of
November 2020, the sales volume of their product
amounted to around USD 180,000/- (approx. INR
1.33 Crore) of which around USD 154,400/- (approx.
INR 1.14 Crore) sales was in Haryana.
The CCC discussed that the sales data and the
relevant information while it met the quantitative
criteria, was not independently verified or certified
by a Chartered Accountant as is clearly required by
way of evidence by ASCI brand extension guidelines.
The advertiser did not submit a valid certificate from
an independent organization such as AC Nielsen or
category specific industry association (for
distribution and sales turnover) to prove the
concerned criteria.
Based on these observations, the CCC concluded that
the TVC and the YouTube advertisement was in
contravention of Clause 3 of ASCI Guidelines for
Qualification of Brand Extension Product or Service.
The earlier recommendation of the CCC of
complaint being Upheld stands on Re-
examination.
Complaints received directly by ASCI on OCMS /
contact@ascionline.org
93. W 2011C.1901 Vodafone Idea Limited
(Vodafone Idea-Fastest 4G)
MEDIUM: Hoarding at Bandra Worli Link Road
Economic Times(*) Mumbai/Goa Edition on
05.11.2020
ADVERTISING AGENCY: Ogilvy(*)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Mumbai ka, Maharashtra Ka, India ka Fastest 4G
Giganet”
Complaint:
“I am a telecom consumer and have experimented
with 4G service of most service providers. While all
claim that they provide fastest service, no one offers
the speed as promised everywhere you go and
always. The speed keeps varying from location to
location. Therefore, I am surprised by some claims of
always giving the best speed anywhere in India,
because generally they are fake.
One such claim, I saw was by a company VI, which
said that it is the fastest 4G network in Mumbai,
Maharashtra and India. I wanted to buy a SIM, if this
is true, but found out that this is Vodafone and Idea
network only. I already had a bad 4G experience with
them and wondered how come the Government is
allowing such ads. Also, I saw that they had put some
justification on the bottom of the ad but that is
unreadable.
Recommendations – December 2020
I did some online investigation and found that as per
TRAI Speedtest, they are not the best, then how come
your organisation is allowing such sick and
misleading advertisement basis some fake points
which are not even readable. Then I did some more
research and found that ASCI has been proactively
barring such fake advertisements.
Thus clearly, ASCI knows the issue and has taken
actions against operators. How come VI is still doing
the same nonsense again. ASCI should take strong
action this time so that operators stop fooling the
customers by such falsehood. The picture of
offending hoarding is attached.”
Suo motu objections:
“The size of the disclaimer is not in line with ASCI’s
Disclaimer Guidelines specific to Clause 1- A
disclaimer should be clear, prominent and eligible.
Disclaimer should be clearly visible to a normally
sighted person reading the marketing communication
once from a reasonable distance and at a reasonable
speed.
In static mediums like hoardings, disclaimers should
have font sizes equivalent to 2.6% of the height of the
medium and NOT LESS THAN 10 point font size.
For large hoarding of 400 sq feet or more, the font
size should NOT BE LESS than 100 points.”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered
an opportunity to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat
to seek further guidance, which they did not avail and
submitted their written response.
Advertiser in their response stated that “So far as font
size of the disclaimer is concerned, they have a
confirmation from their agency to that effect that the
disclaimer is in line with ASCI requirement and as
per industry practice.
It clarifies that the claim is based on Ookla India
market report dated October 28, 2020 and Ookla
certificate dated October 19, 2020. Further the claim
is fully substantiated as disclaimer refers to website
which contains full terms & conditions and claim
support. They also submit the Ookla methodology for
the claims approved by them. Claim is based on an
independent Ookla report as clarified in the
disclaimer and therefore it is imperative, that to
validate the claim, Ookla is also made a necessary
party.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided – (1)
Confirmation email from agency on disclaimer
compliance and high res images, (2) Ookla India
market report on Ookla website, (3) Ookla certificate
dated October 19, 2020, (4) Terms & Conditions on
their website, (5) Ookla methodology documents, (6)
Copy of print Ad, Bus shelter image.
The complaint and the advertiser’s response with the
claim support data was referred to the independent
technical expert of ASCI. The expert opinion was
shared with the advertiser for making any additional
submissions. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for IR at this stage based on the expert
opinion. The advertiser did not opt for an IR but
sought for a meeting with the technical expert, which
was arranged by the ASCI Secretariat through Zoom
video conference.
In response to the expert opinion, the advertiser
stated that “the claims made are basis the Ookla
methodology adopted by brands, agencies etc in
multiple countries across the globe and further
clarify that it is not just a numerical comparison but
also validated through scientific method as indicated
& detailed in the attached document (Annexure A).
They are making the claim basis Ookla and not basis
Open signal or TRAI reports, which may vary in the
methodology and design. And shouldn’t be used to
evaluate their claim. Vi is also the ‘Fastest 4G of
India’ even as per the Open signal report that the
expert has quoted (excerpt attached as Annexure B -
the table with 4G & 3G speeds from the open signal
report). With regard to the Mumbai claim, the data
on open signal report that the expert has quoted
doesn’t seem to report the scores at 4G level and
hence cannot be considered since their claim is based
on 4G technology only.”
Post meeting with the ASCI Secretariat and the
technical expert, the advertiser responded providing
additional information that the technical expert had
requested, and a detailed methodology of the study.
Based on the advertiser’s additional response, the
technical expert submitted his final opinion for the
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) to consider.
The CCC viewed the Ad – Hoarding and the print
advertisement and considered the advertiser’s
response as well as the opinion of the Technical
expert presented at the meeting. The CCC observed
that the said claim was qualified with a disclaimer,
“Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest
Intelligence ® data of average 4G download speeds
on 5G/4G LTE devices in India, Maharashtra,
Mumbai for Q3 2020. Ookla trademarks used under
license and reprinted with permission. For more
details visit www.myvi.in”. The advertiser stated
that they have complied with the ASCI Code on
Recommendations – December 2020
disclaimer requirements and also provided an email
from their advertising agency confirming the font
size of the disclaimer as per ASCI requirements.
Further the advertiser has also provided a Report by
Ookla global leader in internet testing to substantiate
its claim and details to represent that the disclaimer
was referred to and explicitly stated at various public
platform including their website. The CCC was of the
view that the Ookla data is a standard industry data
which the internet service providers are using, it is
district based since Ookla seems to be a provider to
TRAI and it is a reliable source. The Ookla data
supports the claim made and the disclaimer clearly
clarifies the main claim.
Based on these observations, by majority, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Mumbai Ka, Maharashtra
Ka, India ka Fastest 4G Giganet”, was not
objectionable and hence not in contravention of
Chapter I of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
NOT UPHELD.
94. # 2012-C.2329 Matrimony.com Ltd (*)
(Gujaratimatrimony.com)
MEDIUM: Website Advertisements
YouTube(*)
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tO2EB_r3QiU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucleFP-KH3w)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Complaint:
1. CLAIM CHALLENGED: The Advertiser’s
Claim - The No. 1 & Most Trusted Matrimony
Service for Gujaratis (“Claim”) and the
Advertisements which have been in circulation
since January 2019 and the claims on its
website(s) are in violation of the following ASCI
Codes.
2. We draw your attention to the following
provisions of the ASCI code which are blatantly
and knowingly being violated by the impugned
Advertisements and Claim being made by the
Advertiser:
ASCI CODE PROVISIONS VIOLATED:
Awards/Rankings should not be used as an
alternative for consumer or scientific
research or testing which is required to
substantiate a superiority claim about the
effective use or performance of products or
services. Advertisements that refer to
awards/rankings should indicate clearly the
name of the organisation that has provided
the award/ranking and the month and year in
which the award/ranking was pronounced.
The validity of the award/ranking so used to
substantiate a claim should be of a period
preceding the advertisement by not more
than 12 months.
Advertisement shall neither distort facts nor
mislead the consumer by means of
implications or omissions. Advertisements
shall not contain statements or visual
presentation which directly or by
implication or by omission or by ambiguity
or by exaggeration are likely to mislead the
consumer about the product advertised or
the advertiser or about any other product or
advertiser.
Advertisement shall not be framed as to
abuse the trust of consumers or exploit their
lack of experience or knowledge. No
advertisement shall be permitted to contain
any claim so exaggerated as to lead to grave
or widespread disappointment in the minds
of consumers.
3. THE GROUNDS OF CHALLENGE are, in
order to sustain a claim relating to an
award/ranking of a product/service, consumer or
scientific research is to be undertaken. Further,
an advertisement should clearly indicate the
name of the organization that has provided the
award/ranking and the year in which it was
pronounced. The ASCI Code further goes on to
clarify that the validity of the award/ranking
should be of a period preceding the
advertisement by not more than 12 months.
4. MEDIUM OF ADVERTISEMENTS:
Advertisements circulating on the YouTube
channel of the Advertiser indicates that its Claim
isthat it is ‘The No. 1 & Most Trusted
Matrimony Service for Gujaratis’. Further, the
website of the Advertiser also depicts this Claim
ofthe Advertiser.
5. Youtube links of the
advertisements: https://www.youtube.com/watch
?v=tO2EB_r3QiU, https://www.youtube.com/wa
tch?v=ucleFP-KH3w
6. Website link of the Advertiser:
https://www.gujaratimatrimony.com/
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered
an opportunity to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat
Recommendations – December 2020
to seek further guidance, which they did not avail and
submitted their written response.
Advertiser in their response stated that “They have
also provided Google keyword search Volume report
using various combination of keywords which clearly
establishes the No.1 position of Gujarati Matrimony.
They are now providing Google trends report
comparing all the possible usage of keywords for
Gujarat, India and Worldwide from 15th Dec 2019 to
23rd August 2020. Google keyword search Volume
report comparing all the possible combination of
keywords for Gujarat, India and all locations from
Nov 2019 to Oct 2020. Attached the Google trends
comparison between all the possible usage of
keywords Gujarati Matrimony and Gujarati Shaadi
for the period 15th Dec 2019 to 23rd August 2020
which clearly shows that Gujarati Matrimony is
popular than Gujarati Shaadi.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided – (1)
Gujarati- Google Search Volume Report- Dec 15
2020, (2) Gujarati- Google Trends ppt- Dec 15 2020,
(3) Gujarati matrimony- Google Trend URL- Dec 15
2020-r
As this data being inadequate as claim support data,
ASCI Secretariat requested the advertiser to provide
market research data, or comparative studies to
support the claim. Advertiser did not submit the
required data within the given timelines. Hence the
advertiser’s response with the supporting data was
placed before the CCC for their deliberation.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the Website advertisement
(https://www.gujaratimatrimony.com/) and the
YouTube advertisements
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tO2EB_r3QiU,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucleFP-KH3w)
and considered the advertiser’s response.
The CCC was of the view that while there are other
search engines as well, Google is one of such search
engines which is most likely to be used by the users
worldwide as a search engine. In digital marketing
the evaluation of websites, blogs is more of
dependent on the number of searches and traffic on
such websites, the data of which is also provided
through Google reports. However, Google trends is
not a third party platform and that it provides
research data only for the searches that are made
through Google.
In addition, the CCC felt that the Google analytic
data is by itself not sufficient evidence to support the
claim, and did not consider this data as acceptable as
it is only search data which does not make the
advertiser’s brand/service as No.1 and most trusted.
The advertiser can claim themselves to be `No.1
search brand’ but not `No.1 and most trusted’. The
revenue figures and the profit figures quoted in the
advertiser’s response comparing themselves with that
of the complainant was not considered relevant, as
according to the CCC, websites with lesser number of
searches could have higher revenues. For claiming to
be No.1, the volume of search interest does not
suffice, instead the number of individuals registered
with the website should be given weightage.
Advertiser relied on data which was available on
Google trend, and the advertiser did not provide a
certification by an independent third party to validate
the data of being `No.1 and most trusted’ matrimony
service for Gujaratis. Data from Google trend is not
sufficient to prove the claim as the same cannot be
construed as a third party. The parameter they have
used to claim No.1 and most trusted does not justify
the claim made and is not recognised for a claim of
this nature. They have not used the correct data to
make an appropriate claim.
Based on these observations, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “The No. 1 & Most Trusted Matrimony
Service for Gujaratis” was inadequately substantiated
with verifiable comparative data with market sales
data, volume and value share data, or any third party
validation. The claim is misleading by exaggeration
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of consumers. The source for the claim
was not indicated in the advertisements. The Website
advertisement and the YouTube advertisements
contravened Chapters I.1, I.2, I.4 and I.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
For the objection raised against the use of the
Celebrity (Mahendra Singh Dhoni) in the
advertisement, the CCC observed that the advertiser
did not provide any evidence to show that the
celebrity had done due diligence prior to
endorsement, to ensure that all descriptions, claims
and comparisons made in the advertisements are
capable of substantiation. This contravenes Clauses
(c), (d) of the ASCI Guidelines for Celebrities in
Advertising. This complaint was UPHELD.
95. OC 2012-C.2388 Vize Health & Hygiene Pvt.
Ltd. – (Vize alcohol disinfectant hand
santitizer)
MEDIUM: Twitter Advertisement
(https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1328219259135
115264?s=20)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Offer 99.9% germ protection without drying your
skin
2. Recommended By Indian Medical Academy.
Recommendations – December 2020
Complaint:
“I have noticed the following advertisement in the
following tweet of Vize Care and Mr.Virat
Kohli. https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/132821925
9135115264?s=20. The advt. reflects a
recommendation from Indian Medical Academy for
Preventive Health for Vize Care products. Why has
the Medical Academy recommended this product, a
sanitiser and on what basis, health study reports?
What benefits/USP has it seen over the other
products? What verification has Mr.ViratKohli done
before endorsing the products of Vize Care?
My objection is with Vize Care's claim of- "offering
99.9% germ protection without drying your skin" and
"Recommendation from Indian Medical Academy".
https://twitter.com/VizeCare/status/13296567133733
88802?s=20
What is the basis of both claims? The first claim is
very vague. Can Vize prove this? Secondly, on what
health reports and SOPs has Indian Medical
Academy given this recommendation? Why was Vize
selected? I am not doubting the
Academy's credentials but Vize is not even using
their full name: Indian Medical Academy for
Preventive Health, which is misrepresentation
(attached picture). Thirdly, has Mr.ViratKohli done
the due diligence before endorsing Vize Products?”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered an
option to seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the
complaint by modifying or withdrawing the claims
objected to in the advertisement, or alternately to
substantiate the claims with the required supporting
data. The advertiser was also offered an opportunity
for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they
did not avail nor did they submit their written
response. The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC)
noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the Twitter advertisement
(https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1328219259135
115264?s=20) and observed that the advertiser is
promoting their hand sanitizer product and has
claimed that the same `gives 99.9% protection from
germs’ and `recommended By Indian Medical
Academy’. However, the advertiser did not provide
product specific information such as copy of product
approval license, product label, product composition
details, scientific rationale, nor any technical test data
for the product claims.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “Offer
99.9% germ protection without drying your skin”
was not substantiated with clinical evidence of
product efficacy. Claim, “Recommended By Indian
Medical Academy”, was not proven with supporting
evidence of the product being recommended by IMA.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to grave disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The Twitter advertisement contravened
Chapters I.1, I.4, and I.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
For the objection raised against the use of the
Celebrity (Virat Kohli) in the advertisement and
product packaging, the CCC observed that the
advertiser did not provide any evidence to show that
the celebrity had done due diligence prior to
endorsement, to ensure that all descriptions, claims
and comparisons made in the advertisement are
capable of substantiation. This contravenes Clauses
(c), (d) of the ASCI Guidelines for Celebrities in
Advertising. This complaint was UPHELD.
96. Suo Motu 2012-C.2389 Vedanta Limited
(Cairn Oil & Gas)
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Mumbai, (10.12.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“How did Barmer, in Rajasthan, increase its per
capita income by 650%?”
Objection:
The above claim implies that the credit for rise in
income seems to be self-attributed by Vedanta.
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
Recommendations – December 2020
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is a mining company
based in India, with its main operations in iron ore,
gold and aluminium mines in Goa, Karnataka,
Rajasthan and Odisha. The CCC noted the said claim
carried a disclaimer to mention “Source (August
2019)
(https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/barm
ers-per-capita-income-has-risen-by-650-in
10yrs/articleshow/70900748.cms)”
The Weblink mentioned in the disclaimer carried an
article about views expressed by Chief Minister of
Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot, who was addressing an
event organised on the 10th Anniversary of the oil
exploration by cairn India in Barmer. He spoke about
the oil exploration by Cairn India in Barmer and that
Cairn India contributed 24% oil to the country.
Further in the article it was also stated that, with the
oil exploration, the per capita income of Barmer
increased by 650% in 10 years.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the Advertiser, the
CCC was of the view that the details or data on the
web article was not adequate to substantiate such
claim as the same was not authenticated or verified
data. The advertiser’s claim, “How did Barmer, in
Rajasthan, increase its per capita income by 650%?”
indirectly indicated that the advertiser’s oil
exploration company in Barmer is the reason for
Barmer’s increase in income which lead to the
growth in the per capita income of Rajasthan. The
advertiser did not provide any data with respect to
their contribution in the per capita income of Barmer
and the statistical data to prove the same. While the
per capita income of Barmer may have increased by
650% in 10 years, the advertiser must indicate their
contribution in the same, as there are many factors
which are to be considered while calculating the per
capita income of any region/ state or country. The
CCC concluded that the claim, “How did Barmer, in
Rajasthan, increase its per capita income by 650%?”,
was not substantiated. The claim is misleading by
implication that the credit for rise in income seems to
be self-attributed by Vedanta. The print
advertisement contravened the Chapters 1.1 and 1.4
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD
97. W SPI 2012-C.2391 Versing solutions
(Tami Pro - Live Stream, Live Video & Live
Show)
MEDIUM: Mobile Application
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
“Hi. I have an complaint against an social media app
in their video advertisement they show womens
removing their cloth and showing their body parts
app name is tami pro I have seen this ads on mobile
apps which I use and these ads are given by Google
(because any apps which is downloaded from play
store, to run advertisements on them businesses need
to approach Google ads). I also have proof of vulgar
advertisement in the form of video”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of
the complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a
request to respond to the same. The advertiser was
offered an option to seek Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint by withdrawing the visuals/claims
objected to in the advertisement. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
Given the nature of the complaint with the objections
raised and the advertisement complained against, the
complaint was processed under Suspension Pending
Investigation (SPI) Process.
The CCC viewed the social media advertisement
video provided by the Complainant and observed that
the advertiser was promoting its social media app
which had clips of certain obscene actions by the
women in the advertisement. Though the exact
source with regard to the platform at which the
advertisement was presented was not identified the
CCC discussed that the advertisement was offensive
to generally acceptable standards of public decency.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the advertisement
had indecent and repulsive content, which in the light
of the generally prevailing standards of decency is
likely to cause grave and widespread offence to
women. The mobile application advertisement
contravened Chapter II of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
NAMS Complaints:
98. @ 2011-C.1714 Tantia University
MEDIUM: Times of India(*),Jaipur Edition, Main
Issue,(English), (02.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
Recommendations – December 2020
“100% Government Placements”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s university is providing
courses in various field such as Medical, Ayurveda,
engineering, Homeopathy etc. The advertiser is
claiming to provide 100% Government Placements.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “100% Government
Placements” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their Institute in relevant industries on completion of
their courses, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
in Advertising. This complaint was UPHELD.
99. @ 2012-C.1716 Daswani Classes Limited-
Daswani Classes
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Jaipur Edition, Main
Issue, (English), (30.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“India's most popular faculty who has produced more
than 20,000 doctors.”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s classes is providing
coaching for NEET. Upon careful consideration of
the complaint, and in the absence of any response
from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the
claim, “India's most popular faculty who has
produced more than 20,000 doctors.” was not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
coaching classes versus other coaching classes in
India, to prove that they have India’s most popular
faculty, nor the claim was backed by a third party
validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
100. @ 2012-C.1748 AKS University
MEDIUM: Dainik Jagran(*), Rewa Edition, Main
Issue, (English),(06.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Job to the passed out students- B. Tech
(Cement Tech)”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
Recommendations – December 2020
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s university is providing
coaching for B. Tech (Cement Tech).
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “100% Job to the
passed out students- B. Tech (Cement Tech)” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their Institute in
relevant industries on completion of their courses,
their appointment letters, list of students who were
not placed and the reason for their non-placement,
nor any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
in Advertising. This complaint was UPHELD.
101. @ 2012-C.1815 Alakh Prakash Goyal Shimla
University
MEDIUM: EP Amar Ujala(*), Dharamsala Edition,
Main Issue, (English) (18.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Job Assured Courses”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s university is providing
coaching for Diploma in fashion design, B.Sc in
apparel production and management/ fashion design.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Job Assured
Courses” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their Institute in relevant industries on completion of
their courses, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
in Advertising. This complaint was UPHELD.
102. @ 2012-C.1835 Sharda Group of Institutions-
Hindustan College of Science & Technology
(HCST)
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*),Nainital Edition,
Main Issue, (English) (30.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Awarded Best Technical school of North India &
Best Placement & Industry Interface by
ASSOCHAM India”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
Recommendations – December 2020
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is claiming be `awarded
as Best Technical school of North India & Best
Placement & Industry Interface by ASSOCHAM
India’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Awarded Best
Technical school of North India & Best Placement &
Industry Interface by ASSOCHAM India” was not
substantiated with copy of the award certificate,
details of the process for award selection, criteria for
granting the award, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
engineering colleges in North India that were part of
the survey and the outcome of the survey, and the
details of the awarding body. The source for the
claim was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
103. @ 2012-C.1856 Audisankara Group of
Institutions-Audisankara Polytechnic College
MEDIUM: EP Sakshi, Nellore Edition, Supplement,
Sakshi 24 7 SPSR Nellore, (English), (28.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assurance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s university is providing
Diploma courses. The advertiser is claiming to
provide 100% Placement Assurance.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “100% Placement
Assurance” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their Institute in relevant industries on completion of
their courses, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
in Advertising. This complaint was UPHELD.
104. @ 2012-C.1943 Srajan College of Design
MEDIUM: EP Daily Sakal(*), Jalgaon Edition,
Supplement Jalgaon Today, (Marathi), (28.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Job & employment to students till date”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the Claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
Recommendations – December 2020
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s university is providing
degree and diploma courses in field of animation
gaming design, visual effects, photography etc. The
advertiser is claiming that they have provided 100%
Job & employment to students till date.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “100% Job &
employment to students till date” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their Institute in
relevant industries on completion of their courses,
their appointment letters, list of students who were
not placed and the reason for their non-placement,
nor any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs and Chapter I-Clause 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5
of the ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines for
Disclaimers in Advertising. This complaint was
UPHELD.
105. @ 2012-C.1949 Shri Rawatpura Sarkar
Institutions
MEDIUM: EP DainikJagran (*), Jhansi Edition,
Main Issue, (English), (02.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Most Trusted Institution in Bundelkhand Region”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the Claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s university is providing
coaching for B.Pharma, B.Tech, D.Pharma,
M.Pharma, B.Sc (Nursing) etc. The advertiser is
claiming to be the Most Trusted Institution in
Bundelkhand Region.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Most Trusted
Institution in Bundelkhand Region” was not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
Institution versus other similar institutions in
Bundelkhand region, to prove that they are most
trusted institution, nor the claim was backed by a
third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
106. @ 2012-C.1962 The Diocesan Technical
Education Trust-St. Joseph’s College of
Engineering and Technology
MEDIUM: EP Malayala Manorama (*), Kochi
Edition, Main Issue, (English), (01.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Winner of the top performing IEDC award from
Kerala Startup Mission for 3 years
2. Recipient of the Kerala State AkshayaOorja Award
in Educational Institutions category
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to:: in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
Recommendations – December 2020
courses such as B.Tech, M.Tech, PhD, MBA, MCA.
The Advertiser is claiming be ‘awarded as Winner of
the top performing IEDC award from Kerala Startup
Mission for 3 years’ and has `received Kerala State
AkshayaOorja Award in Educational Institutions
category’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claims, “Winner of the top
performing IEDC award from Kerala Startup Mission
for 3 years” and “Recipient of the Kerala State
AkshayaOorja Award in Educational Institutions
category”, were not substantiated with copy of the
award certificates, details of the process for awards
selection, criteria for granting the awards, survey
methodology, parameters considered, questionnaires
used, names of other engineering colleges that were
part of the survey and the outcome of the survey, and
the details of the awarding body. The source for the
claim was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, Guidelines for Usage of Awards/ Rankings in
Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
107. @ 2012-C.2004 Baluni Classes
MEDIUM: EP DainikJagran(*), Agra Edition, Main
Issue, (Hindi) (18.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Selection Guaranteed”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
medical and engineering entrance exams. The
advertiser is claiming 100% guaranteed selection of
their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “100% Selection
Guaranteed”, was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as detailed list of students who
were selected for medical/ engineering entrance
exams including dropouts, evidence to support their
enrolment, their Contact details for verification, or
independent audit or verification certificate.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
108. @ 2012-C.2005 Jai AmbeShikhsa Academy-
Drishti (The Vision) Institute of Hotel
Management
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Nainital Edition,
Main Issue, (English) (25.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s university is providing
Hotel Management course. The advertiser is claiming
to provide 100% Placement to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “100% Placement”
was not substantiated with authentic supporting data
such as batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their Institute in
Recommendations – December 2020
relevant industries on completion of their courses,
their appointment letters, list of students who were
not placed and the reason for their non-placement,
nor any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
in Advertising. This complaint was UPHELD.
109. @ 2012-C.2008 Indian Institute of Tourism
and Travel Management
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Chandigarh Edition,
Main Issue, (Hindi), (11.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
Given the nature of the claim, the advertiser was
offered an option to seek Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint by modifying or withdrawing the claim
objected to in the advertisement. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is providing
coaching for course of MBA (Tourism & Travel
Management) and BBA (Tourism and Travel). The
advertiser is claiming to provide 100% Placement
assistance to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the advertiser may be
providing placement assistance to their students for
getting jobs in relevant industry, the use of 100%
numerical is not relevant for “Placement Assistance”
claim. There cannot be a percentage assigned to any
assistance claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The
use of “100%” as a descriptor in the claim is
misleading by implication and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of students.
The Print advertisement contravened Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code.
This complaint was UPHELD.
110. @ 2012-C.2010 Vidyamandir Classes
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Jamshedpur
Edition, Main Issue, (English) (11.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Rapid Success Course-Learn from best teachers
(founders + senior faculties)
2. VIQ (Vidyamandir Intellect Quest)-To be among
the topper; Join VMC, To Join VMC; Test your
intellect for the Biggest Test of the year by VMC
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is providing
coaching for JEE/ NEET. Upon careful consideration
of the complaint, and in the absence of any response
from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the
claims, “Rapid Success Course-Learn from best
teachers (founders + senior faculties)”, and “VIQ
(Vidyamandir Intellect Quest)-To be among the
topper; Join VMC, To Join VMC; Test your intellect
for the Biggest Test of the year by VMC”, were not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
Coaching Classes versus other Coaching Classes for
NEET/ JEE, to prove that they are better than the rest
in terms of faculty and that they are providing biggest
test of the year. The claims were not backed by a
third party validation.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The print advertisement
Recommendations – December 2020
contravened Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters I.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
111. @ 2012-C.2011 Florence Nightingale School
of Nursing, Ujjain
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Ujjain Edition, Main
Issue, (Hindi), (21.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Hundred percent (shat-pratishat) Job Guarantee”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is a nursing
school. The advertiser is claiming to provide 100%
job guarantee to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Hundred percent
(shat-pratishat) Job Guarantee”, was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their Institute on
completion of their courses, their appointment letters,
list of students who were not placed and the reason
for their non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, as well as Chapter I-Clause 1.1, 1.4
and 1.5 of the ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines for
Disclaimers made in supporting, limiting or
explaining claims made in advertisements,. This
complaint was UPHELD.
112. @ 2012-C.2012 Federal Institute of Hotel
Management
MEDIUM: Navbharat Times(*), New Delhi Edition,
Main Issue, (English), (02.11.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
Given the nature of the claim, the advertiser was
offered an option to seek Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint by modifying or withdrawing the claim
objected to in the advertisement. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is providing
Hotel Management course along with various
international programs. The advertiser is claiming to
provide 100% Placement assistance to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the advertiser may be
providing placement assistance to their students for
getting jobs in relevant industries, the use of 100%
numerical is not relevant for “Placement Assistance”
claim. There cannot be a percentage assigned to any
assistance claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The
use of “100%” as a descriptor in the claim is
misleading by implication and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of students.
The print advertisement contravened Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code.
This complaint was UPHELD.
113. @ 2012-C.2013 Indian Institute of Fashion
Design (IIFD)
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Shimla Edition, Main
Issue, (English),(20.10.2020)
Recommendations – December 2020
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Job oriented Courses
2. Award Winning Design Institute
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is fashion &
design institute providing under graduate, post
graduate and diploma courses. The advertiser is
claiming to provide 100% job oriented courses to
their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the courses being offered
by the advertiser may be job oriented, the use of
100% numerical is not relevant for “job oriented
courses” claim. The use of “100%” as a descriptor
in the claim is misleading by implication, and is
likely to lead to grave or widespread disappointment
in the minds of students.
The claim, “Award Winning Design Institute” was
not substantiated with copy of the award certificate,
details of the process for award selection, criteria for
granting the award, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
fashion & designing institutes/ organizations in India
that were part of the survey, the outcome of the
survey, and details about the awarding body. The
source of the claim was not mentioned in the
advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, Guidelines for Usage of Awards/ Rankings in
Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
114. @ 2011-C.2022 JIET Group of Institutions-
Jodhpur Institute of Engineering
&Technology
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Jodhpur Edition,
Main Issue,(English), (25.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Rank 1st in The State By University” (3
rd time in a
row)”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their response.
Advertiser in their response stated that “JIET have
been “Ranked 1ST in The State by Bikaner Technical
University, Bikaner” in the Session 2018-19, 2019-20
and in 2020-21 as well (3rd time in a row) through
QIV (Quality Index Value) Ranking.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided – (1)
QIV Certificate JIET_2019-20, (2) QIV_letter-2020-
21, (3) QIV_RANK LIST_2020-21, (4) QIV-
final_Engineering_2018-19.
Advertiser was further requested by the ASCI
Secretariat to provide a ranking list for year 19-20.
The complaint and the advertiser’s response with the
claim support data was referred to the independent
technical expert of ASCI. The expert opinion was
shared with the advertiser for making any additional
submissions. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for IR at this stage based on the expert
opinion. The advertiser did not opt for an IR and also
did not provide any additional data in response to the
expert opinion.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the print advertisement and considered the
advertiser’s response as well as the opinion of the
Technical expert presented at the meeting. The CCC
observed that according to the website of Bikaner
Technical University (BTU), it was established in
2017. The Technical Institutes of Bikaner Division,
Jodhpur Division, Ajmer Division (District Nagaur,
Ajmer), Jaipur Division (District Alwar, Sikar and
Jhunjhunu) are under the administrative and
academic control of BTU. However, BTU was set up
initially to share the workload of Rajasthan Technical
University (RTU) based in Kota. The web site of RTU
lists 74 Engineering colleges under its jurisdiction.
Thus while Jodhpur Institute of Engineering and
Recommendations – December 2020
Technology may have been Ranked 1st by BTU,
which is with reference to academic institutions under
its jurisdiction, it is not completely clear that BTU
have complete jurisdiction over the State of
Rajasthan. In addition, there is no disclaimer
associated with the claim that provides information
on the body granting the Award. Till it is established
that BTU has full jurisdiction over the State of
Rajasthan, the advertiser should refrain from making
the said claim.
Based on this assessment, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “Rank 1ST in The State By University”
(3rd time in a row)” was inadequately substantiated.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.2, and 1.4 of the ASCI
Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Usage of Awards/
Rankings in Advertisements. This complaint was
UPHELD.
115. @ 2012-C.2025 NJR Foundation-Techno
India NJR Institute of Technology
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Jaipur Edition, Main
Issue,(English) (02.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Most Trusted Engineering College in Udaipur”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is claiming to
be the most trusted engineering college in Udaipur.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Most Trusted
Engineering College in Udaipur” was not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
engineering college versus other engineering colleges
in Udaipur, to prove that they are most trusted
institute among the students, nor the claim was
backed by a third party validation. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of students.
The print advertisement contravened Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code.
This complaint was UPHELD.
116. @ 2012-C.2026 United Group of Institutions
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan(*), Allahabad Edition,
Main Issue, (English) (03.11.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Most Preferred Engineering Institute of the Year -
North by ASSOCHAM India
2. Top Private Institution in North India for
Engineering By Jagran Josh
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claims
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is offering
various courses such as B.Tech, M.Tech, MBA, BBA
etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claims, “Most Preferred
Engineering Institute of the Year - North by
ASSOCHAM India” and “Top Private Institution in
North India for Engineering By Jagran Josh” were not
substantiated with copy of the award certificates,
details of the process for awards selection, criteria for
granting the awards, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
engineering institutes in North India that were part of
the survey and the outcome of the survey, and the
details of the awarding body. The source of the claims
was not mentioned in the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
Recommendations – December 2020
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
117. @ 2012-C.2039 Aatmdeep Academy
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan(*), Gorakhpur Edition,
Main Issue, (Hindi),(30.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Join Best Online Education programme
2. Giving Best Rank in Gorakhpur in all competitive
exams continuously from the past 2 years
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claims
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is providing
coaching for IIT-JEE and NEET.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claims, “Join Best Online
Education programme” and “Giving Best Rank in
Gorakhpur in all competitive exams continuously
from the past 2 years” were not substantiated with
any market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s coaching classes versus other
Coaching Classes, to prove that they are better than
the rest in terms of providing online education
programme, and the results produced by their
students in all competitive exams are best in
Gorakhpur for past two years, nor the claims were
backed by a third party validation. The claims are
misleading by exaggeration and are likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of students.
The print advertisement contravened Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
118. @ 2012-C.2040 ALLEN Career Institute
MEDIUM: Sambad,Sambalapur Edition, Main Issue,
(English), (09.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Best Academics Delivered Best Results
2. Allen Digital-Best Academics meet Best
Technology
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but replied
requesting for an extension of five working days to
submit their written response.
The deadlines stipulated by Consumer Complaints
Council (CCC) procedure exist keeping in mind the
immediate and widespread impact that advertisements
have on the public. Consequently, any action which is
needed to be taken with respect to the same is
required to be prompt and urgent. It is for this
purpose that the deadlines, as stipulated, are set for
advertisers/broadcasters etc. and the CCC itself
makes it a priority to deal with every complaint
before it as expeditiously as possible. However, as a
special gesture, the advertiser was granted an
extension of additional two business days to respond.
Advertiser did not submit their response by the
extended due date.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is providing
coaching for JEE exams. In the absence of claim
support data, the CCC concluded that the claim, “Best
Academics Delivered Best Results” was not
substantiated with market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
institute versus other similar institutes to prove that
their institute’s better academics have delivered
better results than all the rest, nor the claim was
backed by an independent third party validation.
Claim, “Allen Digital-Best Academics meet Best
Technology”, was not substantiated with market
survey data or with verifiable comparative data of
their online (digital) coaching classes versus other
similar online classes to prove that their online
coaching platform’s better academics meets with
better technology than all the rest. The claim was not
backed by an independent third party validation.
Recommendations – December 2020
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened the ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
119. @ 2012-C.2074 Fliplearn Education Pvt. Ltd
MEDIUM: Times of India(*),New Delhi Edition,
Supplement, Delhi Times, (English) (04.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. The Economic Times Bb “Best Brands 2020, 3rd
Edition
2. The Economic Times Bb “Best Brands 2020, 3rd
Edition
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claims
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing online
platform for the schools and teachers with features
such as live class conferencing, creating test papers
online etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claims, “The Economic
Times Bb “Best Brands 2020, 3rd Edition” and
“India's Award-Winning School Learning
Management System” were not substantiated with
copy of the award certificates, details of the process
for awards selection, criteria for granting the awards,
survey methodology, parameters considered,
questionnaires used, names of other online
platforms/institutes that were part of the survey, the
outcome of the survey and the details of awarding
body. The source of the claims was not mentioned in
the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
120. @ 2012-C.2075 G D Goenka University
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Faridabad Edition,
Main Issue, (English), (29.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“G D Goenka University-Best University in
Pharmacy by National Education Awards 2018(ABP
News)”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing B.Pharma,
D.Pharma courses as well as other under/ post
graduate programmes.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “G D Goenka
University-Best University in Pharmacy by National
Education Awards 2018(ABP News)” was not
substantiated with copy of the award certificate,
details of the process for award selection, criteria for
granting the award, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
institutes/universities that were part of the survey, the
outcome of the survey, and details of the awarding
body. The source of the claim was not mentioned in
the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Recommendations – December 2020
Code, Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
121. @ 2012-C.2076 Chouksey Group of Colleges
MEDIUM: EP NaiDuniya(*),Bilaspur Edition,
Supplement, Bilaspur City,(English),(13.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Placement
2. Best Educational Group in CG by CM
BhupeshBaghelji in 2019
3. Awarded as Best Emerging College in Central
India by Prof. R. Hariharan (AICTE Adviser) CEGR
New Delhi in 2020
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claims
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is offering courses such
as B.Tech, M.Tech, MBA etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “100% Placement”
was not substantiated with authentic supporting data
such as batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their Institute in
relevant industries on completion of their courses,
their appointment letters, list of students who were
not placed and the reason for their non-placement,
nor any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claims, “Best Educational Group in CG by CM
Bhupesh Baghelji in 2019” and “Awarded as Best
Emerging College in Central India by Prof. R.
Hariharan (AICTE Adviser) CEGR New Delhi in
2020” were not substantiated with copy of the award
certificates, details of the process for awards
selection, criteria for granting the awards, survey
methodology, parameters considered, questionnaires
used, names of other institutes/colleges that were part
of the survey, the outcome of the survey, and the
details of the awarding body.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The print advertisement
contravened Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs, Guidelines for
Usage of Awards/Rankings in Advertisements as
well as Chapters I.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code
and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers in Advertising.
This complaint was UPHELD.
122. @ 2012-C.2078 Ruben Group of Educational
Institutions-Ruben College of Arts and
Science
MEDIUM: Daily Thanthi, Nagercoil Edition, Main
Issue, (English), (13.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Best college, Best Education…come and join with
us”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and observed
that the advertiser’s college is offering courses such as
B.Com, B.Sc Comp. Sci, B.Sc Maths etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Best college, Best
Education…come and join with us” was not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s college
versus other colleges offering similar courses, to
prove that they are better than the rest, nor the claim
was backed by a third party validation.
Recommendations – December 2020
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
123. @ 2012-C.2079 Aakash Educational Services
Ltd-Aakash Medical IIT-JEE Foundations
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Kolkata Edition Main
Issue,(English), (29.09.2020)
ADVERTISING AGENCY: Mechbrain India Pvt
Ltd
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Aakash Institute Ranked No.1coaching institute for
Medical/NEE preparation (India Today)”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail of but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “they have released this
advertisement as per the MDRA survey report done
and published by the India Today Print Magazine :
“Aakash Institute Ranked No.1 coaching institute for
Medical /NEET preparation (India Today)”. The
above-noted terms were published and used by India
Today Print Magazine as per their MDRA Survey as
mentioned in Print Magazine. Attached India Today
issue which has the details of the MDRA Survey
Report. The magazine issue clearly mentions the
name of the Market Research agency which has
carried out the survey/research along with the
Methodology used.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided copy
of India Today Rankings 2020.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the print advertisement and considered the
advertiser’s response with the supporting data
provided by them. The CCC reviewed the India
Today-MDRA survey report published in India Today
of September 7, 2020 issue and observed that under
the section `Ranks and Scores of Coaching Institutes
for NEET’, in the overall rank 2020, the advertiser’
institute was listed as No.1 with a total score of 993.0
out of 1000. This proved that they were in leadership
position (No.1) for ranking than all the other
institutes that were part of the survey. The data also
showed that they were ranked No.1 in 2019 also.
Based on the advertiser’s response with the
supporting data provided, the CCC concluded that the
claim, “Aakash Institute Ranked No.1coaching
institute for Medical/NEE preparation (India Today)”
was substantiated. The print advertisement is not in
contravention of Chapter I of the ASCI Code, ASCI
Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements, and ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs.
This complaint was NOT UPHELD.
However, the CCC recommended that the advertiser
should be advised to mention the source and date of
the research for the claim in the advertisement.
124. @ 2012-C.2080 Dr. M.G.R. Educational and
Research Institute
MEDIUM: EP Dinamalar, Chennai Edition Main
Issue, (English), (28.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“WCRC Award-Asia's Fastest Growing Private
Education Institute”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “they have obtained WCRC
Award in the year 2015. Believing bonafiedly that it
can be used even now they have published the same
in their advertisement. If ASCI objects the using of
their logo WCRC Award they assure that they will
withdraw the said logo from their advertisement and
not to use the same in the future advertisements.”
As the advertiser agreed to withdraw the award
related claim, ASCI Secretariat offered them an
option of IR of the complaint, to which no response
was received from the advertiser within the given
timelines.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the print advertisement and considered the
advertiser’s response. The CCC observed that the
advertiser is providing coaching for various courses
such as M.B.B.S, B.Tech, MBA, B.Com etc. The
advertiser is claiming to be awarded the WCRC
Award-Asia's Fastest Growing Private Education
Institute. The award was given to the advertiser’s
Recommendations – December 2020
institute in 2015, which is over 2 years old. The year
of the award was not mentioned in the advertisement.
The CCC considered this data of year 2015 to be
outdated since it did not correspond to the current
year (2020) or the year prior (2019).
Also, the advertiser did not provide a copy of the
award certificate, reference of the award received, the
year, source, the basis of the award or the survey
methodology followed to obtain this information for
the award claimed, such as the category, the basis of
the award such as the details of the process as to how
the selection for the award was done, details of the
criteria for granting the award, parameters considered,
questionnaires used, names of other institutes that
were part of the survey, the outcome of the survey,
and the details of the awarding body. The source for
the claim was not indicated in the advertisement.
Based on these observations, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “WCRC Award-Asia's Fastest Growing
Private Education Institute” was not substantiated.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to cause widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, ASCI Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements, and Chapters
1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
125. @ 2012-C.2081 Galgotias University
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Kanpur Edition Main
Issue, (English), (06.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Awarded the QS Ranking for E-learning Excellence
for Academic Digitisation”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s college is offering
courses such as B.A., LL.B (Hons), LLM etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Awarded the QS
Ranking for E-learning Excellence for Academic
Digitisation” was not substantiated with copy of the
award certificate, details of the process for award
selection, criteria for granting the award, survey
methodology, parameters considered, questionnaires
used, names of other law institutes/ organizations
providing similar courses that were part of the survey,
the outcome of the survey and the details of the
awarding body. The source of the claim was not
mentioned in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, Guidelines for Usage of
Awards/Rankings in Advertisements as well as
Chapters I.1, I.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
126. @ 2012-C.2083 Pearl Academy
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), New DelhiEdition,
Supplement Education Times, (English),
(05.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. India's No.1 Private Design & Fashion College*,
Recognised by ASSOCHAM, India Today, Outlook
and the Week
2. 99% Placements with top recruiters such as IBM,
Amazon, H&M and Vogue
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claims
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and observed
that the advertiser’s college is offering post graduate
programs in design, fashion, business and media.
Recommendations – December 2020
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “India's No.1 Private
Design & Fashion College*, Recognised by
ASSOCHAM, India Today, Outlook and the Week”
was not substantiated with copy of the award
certificate, details of the process for award selection,
criteria for granting the award, survey methodology,
parameters considered, questionnaires used, names of
other fashion & design institutes providing similar
courses that were part of the survey, the outcome of
the survey, and the details of the awarding body. The
source for the claim was not indicated in the
advertisement.
The claim, “99% Placements with top recruiters such
as IBM, Amazon, H&M and Vogue” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of students
and evidence to support their enrolment, contact
details of students for verification, list of students
who were placed through their Institute in relevant
industries on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of students. The print advertisement
contravened Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs, Guidelines for
Usage of Awards/Rankings in Advertisements as well
as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code, and
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was UPHELD.
127. @ 2012-C.2084 Geetanjali Institute of
Technical Studies
MEDIUM: Rajasthan Patrika(*), New Udaipur
Edition, Main Issue, (English), (07.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“1st choice of Meritorious Students for B.Tech.”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and observed
that the advertiser’s institute is offering courses such
as B.Tech, M.Tech, MCA, MBA, Ph.D.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “1st choice of
Meritorious Students for B.Tech.” was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s institute and other similar Institutes, to
prove that they are first choice among the students for
B.Tech, or through an independent third party
validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
128. @ 2012-C.2085 The American College
MEDIUM: Daily Thanthi, Madurai Edition, Main
Issue, (Tamil),(27.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“UGC Recognized B.voc, degree, Bachelors in
Vocational Education Degree with 100% Job
Opportunity.”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
Given the nature of the claim, the advertiser was
offered an option to seek Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint by modifying or withdrawing the
claims objected to in the advertisement. The advertiser
was also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s college is offering
Recommendations – December 2020
various courses such as B.Voc Aquaculture, B.Voc
Medical Lab Technology, B.Voc Data Science,
B.Voc Horticulture etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the advertiser may be
providing job opportunity to their students for getting
jobs in relevant industry sectors, the use of 100%
numerical is not relevant for “UGC Recognized
B.voc, degree, Bachelors in Vocational Education
Degree with 100% Job Opportunity” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any opportunity
claim such as 40% or 80% opportunity. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The print
advertisement contravened Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code.
This complaint was UPHELD.
129. @ 2012-C.2086 S.S. Ganpatrao Degree
College of Administrative Services
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat,Solapur Edition, Supplement,
Hello Solapur, (Marathi), (13.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Due to this study, students are getting completely
prepared for competitive exams after 12th and in
during their degree course which saves money and
gives 100 % Government Job Guarantee”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claims
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s college is providing
coaching for government exams including IAS, IPS,
IRS. Upon careful consideration of the complaint and
in the absence of any response from the advertiser,
the CCC concluded that the claim, “Due to this study,
students are getting completely prepared for
competitive exams after 12th and in during their
degree course which saves money and gives 100 %
Government Job Guarantee” was not substantiated
with authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
placed in government offices/ industries on
completion of their courses, their appointment letters,
list of students who were not placed and the reason
for their non-placement, or independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code, ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made
in supporting, limiting or explaining claims made in
advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
130. @ 2012-C.2087 Rustamji Institute
of Technology (RJIT)
MEDIUM: EP DainikBhaskar(*), Sagar Edition,
Main Issue, (English) (27.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Excellent institute awarded by RGPV.”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and observed
that the advertiser’s institute is offering courses such
as B.Tech, M.Tech, MCA.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
Recommendations – December 2020
CCC concluded that the claim, “Excellent institute
awarded by RGPV.” was not substantiated with copy
of the award certificate, details of the process for
award selection, criteria for granting the award,
survey methodology, parameters considered,
questionnaires used, names of other similar institutes
that were part of the survey, the outcome of the
survey, and the details of the awarding body. The
source for the claim was not indicated in the
advertisement.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Excellent institute
awarded by RGPV.” was not substantiated with copy
of the award certificate, details of the process for
award selection, criteria for granting the award,
survey methodology, parameters considered,
questionnaires used, names of other similar institutes
that were part of the survey, the outcome of the
survey, and the details of the awarding body. The
source for the claim was not indicated in the
advertisement.
131. @ 2012-C.2088 Hindusthan Educational &
Charitable Trust -Hindusthan Educational
Institutions
MEDIUM: Deshabhimani, Kozhikode Edition, Main
Issue, (English), (01.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Get the Best in Everything-Education/Ethics and
Excellence”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is offering
courses in various fields such as Arts & Science,
Engineering & Technology, and Health Science etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Get the Best in
Everything-Education/Ethics and Excellence” was
not substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s institute
versus other institutes providing similar courses, to
prove that they are better than the rest, nor the claim
was backed by a third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
132. @ 2012-C.2090 Delhi Institute of Medical
Representative (DIMR)
MEDIUM: Rajasthan Patrika(*), Bhilwara Edition,
Main Issue, (Hindi) (06.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Job Guarantee
2. DIMR (Delhi Institute of Medical Representative
Awarded by Devang Mehta Business School)
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claims
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser’s institute is providing
medical representative training to their students. The
advertiser is claiming to provide 100% job guarantee
to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “100% Job
Guarantee” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per year,
detailed list of students and evidence to support their
enrolment, contact details of students for verification,
list of students who were placed through their
institute on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
Recommendations – December 2020
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
Claim, “DIMR (Delhi Institute of Medical
Representative Awarded by Devang Mehta Business
School” was not substantiated with copy of the award
certificate, details of the process for award selection,
criteria for granting the award, survey methodology,
parameters considered, questionnaires used, names of
other similar institutes/ organizations that were part
of the survey, the outcome of the survey, and the
details of the awarding body. The source for the claim
was not indicated in the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers, especially students. The print
advertisement contravened Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code, Guidelines for Usage of Awards/ Rankings in
Advertisements, and ASCI Guidelines for
Disclaimers made in supporting, limiting or
explaining claims made in advertisements. This
complaint was UPHELD.
133. @ 2012-C.2171 CIIM-Chandigarh Institute
of Internet Marketing
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://recruitment.guru) (English) (27.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“#1 Digital Marketing Course”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://recruitment.guru) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is offering digital marketing
course.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “#1 Digital Marketing
Course” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s institute and
other similar institutes, to prove that they are in
leadership position (No.1) for Digital Marketing
Course, or through an independent third party
validation.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “#1 Digital Marketing
Course” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s institute and
other similar institutes, to prove that they are in
leadership position (No.1) for Digital Marketing
Course, or through an independent third party
validation.
134. @ 2012-C.2172 Digital Marketing Training
Institute-Digital Ready
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://freshersworld.com) (English) (11.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"Get 100% Placement Assurance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://freshersworld.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is providing digital marketing
training to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, "Get 100% Placement
Assurance” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per year,
detailed list of students and evidence to support their
Recommendations – December 2020
enrolment, contact details of students for verification,
list of students who were placed through their
Institute in relevant industries on completion of their
courses, their appointment letters, list of students who
were not placed and the reason for their non-
placement, nor any independent audit or verification
certificate. Furthermore, the advertisement did not
have any disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no
guarantee of future job prospects” nor did it have a
declaration of the total number of students passing
out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code and
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers in Advertising. This
complaint was UPHELD.
135. @ 2012-C.2173 Digital Marketing Academy
India
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://freshersworld.com) (English) (21.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Best Classroom Training
2. With 100% Placement Assistance
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claims
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://freshersworld.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is providing digital marketing
training to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Best Classroom
Training” was not substantiated with any market
survey data or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s academy versus other digital marketing
academies, to prove that they provide better
classroom training than the rest, nor the claim was
backed by a third party validation.
The CCC also deliberated that, while the advertiser
may be providing placement assistance to their
students for getting jobs in digital marketing industry,
the use of 100% numerical is not relevant for
“Placement Assistance” claim. There cannot be a
percentage assigned to any assistance claim such as
40% or 80% assistance. The use of “100%” as a
descriptor in the claim is misleading by implication
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of students. The digital display
advertisement contravened Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code.
This complaint was UPHELD.
136. @ 2012-C.2174 CIIM-Chandigarh Institute
of Internet Marketing
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://indiamart.com) (English) (28.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"100% Job Placements”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://indiamart.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is providing digital marketing
course to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, "100% Job
Placements” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their Institute in relevant industries on completion of
Recommendations – December 2020
their courses, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code and
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers in Advertising. This
complaint was UPHELD.
137. @ 2012-C.2175 Coding Blocks Pvt Ltd
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://bayt.com)
(English) (29.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"100% Placement Program”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://bayt.com) and observed that the advertiser’s
institute is providing coaching for data structures
algorithms, basic C programs and non-coding topics
to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, "100% Placement
Program” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their Institute in relevant industries on completion of
their courses, their appointment letters, list of students
who were not placed and the reason for their non-
placement, nor any independent audit or verification
certificate. Furthermore, the advertisement did not
have any disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no
guarantee of future job prospects” nor did it have a
declaration of the total number of students passing
out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapter I-Clause 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code
and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers in Advertising.
This complaint was UPHELD.
138. @ 2012-C.2176 Coding Blocks Pvt Ltd
MEDIUM: Digital Display (http://java-
examples.com) (English) (30.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"100% Placement Assurance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://bayt.com) and observed that the advertiser’s
institute is providing Java interview training to their
students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, "100% Placement
Assurance” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their Institute in relevant industries on completion of
their courses, their appointment letters, list of students
who were not placed and the reason for their non-
placement, nor any independent audit or verification
Recommendations – December 2020
certificate. Furthermore, the advertisement did not
have any disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no
guarantee of future job prospects” nor did it have a
declaration of the total number of students passing
out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code and
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers in Advertising. This
complaint was UPHELD.
139. @ 2012-C.2179 Echelon Institute
of Technology
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://targetstudy.com) (English) (06.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance Good Academics”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
Given the nature of the claim, the advertiser was
offered an option to seek Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint by modifying or withdrawing the claim
objected to in the advertisement. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://targetstudy.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is offering B.Tech course. The
advertiser is claiming to provide 100% placement
assistance to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the advertiser may be
providing placement assistance to their students for
getting jobs in relevant industry, the use of 100%
numerical is not relevant for “Placement Assistance
Good Academics” claim. There cannot be a
percentage assigned to any assistance claim such as
40% or 80% assistance. The use of “100%” as a
descriptor in the claim is misleading by implication
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of students. The digital display
advertisement contravened Guidelines for Advertising
of Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
140. @ 2012-C.2217 ITM Vocational
University
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://refinery29.com) (English) (26.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
Given the nature of the claim, the advertiser was
offered an option to seek Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint by modifying or withdrawing the claim
objected to in the advertisement. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://refinery29.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s university is offering International
Hospitality & Tourism Management course. The
advertiser is claiming to provide 100% placement
assistance to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the advertiser may be
providing placement assistance to their students for
getting jobs in relevant industries, the use of 100%
numerical is not relevant for “Placement Assistance”
claim. There cannot be a percentage assigned to any
assistance claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The
use of “100%” as a descriptor in the claim is
misleading by implication and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of students.
The digital display advertisement contravened
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
141. @ 2012-C.2218 Itvedant Education Pvt. Ltd.
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://moneycontrol.com) (English) (29.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Recommendations – December 2020
Claim objected to:
"100% Placement Guarantee”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://moneycontrol.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s institute is providing Java course in
Mumbai to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, "100% Placement
Guarantee” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their Institute on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code and
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers in Advertising. This
complaint was UPHELD.
142. @ 2012-C.2219 C.V. Raman Global
University
MEDIUM: Digital Display
(http://freejobalert.com) (English) (18.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
"100% Placement Guarantee”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://freejobalert.com) and observed that the
advertiser’s university is claiming to provide
guaranteed placements to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, "100% Placement
Guarantee” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their University on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The digital display advertisement
contravened Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code and
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers in Advertising. This
complaint was UPHELD.
143. @ 2012-C.2248 Anandi Atta Chakki Pvt
Ltd- Anandi Atta Chakki
MEDIUM: EP Daily Sakal(*), Satara Edition,
Supplement Satara Today (Marathi) (14.11.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Recommendations – December 2020
Claim objected to:
“The Highest Selling Flour Mill in India”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting flour mill.
The advertiser is claiming that their brand is the
highest selling flour mill in India.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “The Highest Selling
Flour Mill in India” was not substantiated with any
sales data, market survey data or with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s brand versus
other flour mill brands in India, to prove that their
product is the highest selling flour mill, nor the claim
was backed by a third party validation. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
144. @ 2012-C.2271 The Workout Zone
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Agra Edition, Main
Issue (English) (15.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Most Advance Gym in Agra with High Tech
Machines”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the concerned Media (Jagran
Prakashan Ltd) for their assistance in providing the
contact details of the advertiser, or to forward the
objection raised to the advertiser. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser or from the
concerned media prior to the due date. The CCC
viewed the print advertisement and observed that the
advertiser is running a Gym. The advertiser’s gym
offers various types of training including Zumba,
cardio etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Most Advance Gym
in Agra with High Tech Machines” was not
substantiated with any market survey data or with
verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s gym
versus other gyms in Agra providing similar services,
to prove that the advertiser’s gym is the more
advanced than the other gyms with high tech
machines, nor the claim was backed by a third party
validation. The claim is misleading by exaggeration
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
145. @ 2012-C.2303 Gawatre Hospital
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar, Akola Edition,
Supplement Akola Bhaskar (English)
(18.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Easy & Painless Delivery”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and observed
that the advertiser is providing treatment for orthoptic
problem, joint replacement, maternity, fertility etc.
The CCC observed that the advertiser did not provide
details of their treatment procedure for painless
delivery, nor any details regarding the medicines
used, and their approval status by the regulatory
authorities. In the absence of claim support data, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Easy & Painless
Delivery”, was not substantiated with supporting
clinical evidence to prove that women delivered
children at their hospital without any other
Recommendations – December 2020
intervention such as pain killers/ local anaesthesia or
epidural injections. The claim omits the modalities of
the delivery procedure. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers, especially
pregnant women. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
146. @ 2012-C.2304 Tecno Mobile India-
Tecno SPARK 6 Air
MEDIUM: EP Ananda Bazar Patrika, Kolkata
Edition, Main Issue (English) (09.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Best Battery Smartphone”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “Before using the word “Best
Battery Smartphone” in the advertisement, we have
done extensive market research internally and assess
that no other mobile phone under the price of Rs.
10,000 categories have such massive Battery i.e.
6000 MAH with fast charge available in the market.
It is submitted that Tecno SPARK 6 Air Smartphone
when launched was the only smartphone with 6000
MAH battery with fast charge feature which made it
“Best Battery Smartphone” among all smartphone
below the price of Rs. 10,000 categories.”
As claim support data, the Advertiser provided a
report indicating research done by them internally.
The report shows the comparison chart of the
Advertiser’s 2 phones Spark power 2 Air & Spark 6
air (2+32GB) which shows that they were the only
smartphone with 6000 MAH battery capacity in the
given price range.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
considered the advertiser’s response along with the
report provided by them. The CCC observed that the
claim was made on the basis of the price i.e. their
product had best battery among the mobile phones
having a price under INR 10,000/-, however, the
advertiser did not mention the price band in the
advertisement considering the claim was made based
on the price band. The advertisement did not provide
any disclaimer in this regard to bring forth proper
information to the consumers with respect to the
claim made.
The CCC also observed that the research report
provided by the advertiser was prepared internally
which included few models from some mobile brands
such as Xiaomi, Realme, Oppo, Vivo and Samsung.
The CCC concluded that considering the extensive
range that is available and offered by various brands
in the mobile technology domain, the internal
research report did not provide sufficient data to
decide whether the advertiser’s product has the best
battery or not, since, there can be a number of mobile
phones to compare with, under the price range of
INR 10,000/-.
Based on these observations, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “Best Battery Smartphone” was
inadequately substantiated. The claim is misleading
by exaggeration and is likely to cause widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers. The print
advertisement contravened the Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and
1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
147. @ 2012-C.2305 Indiabulls Real Estate
Limited- Indiabulls Mega Mall
MEDIUM: Rajasthan Patrika(*), Jodhpur Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (11.11.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Jodhpur's Biggest Mall”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser was promoting its
shopping mall in Jodhpur.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Jodhpur's Biggest
Mall” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s mall versus other
Recommendations – December 2020
shopping malls in Jodhpur, to prove that their mall is
bigger than all the rest, nor the claim was backed by a
third-party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
148. @ 2012-C.2306 Magic Wings Centre
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Ujjain Edition, Main
Issue (Hindi) (04.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Reduce 5 kg Weight in Just 15 Days without the
use of any Harmful Medicine and Machine
2. Reduce weight in spite of all types of problems like
hypothyroid, gall bladder stone, kidney stone and
diabetes without any side effects
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing treatment for
weight loss without medicines, machine, without any
side effects, inspite of having other health problems
as claimed.
The CCC observed that the advertiser did not provide
details of their treatment procedure for weight
reduction nor did they provide evidence of their
customers who achieved the claimed results of
reducing weight upto 5 Kgs in 15 days or even with
other health problems as claimed. In the absence of
claim support data, the CCC concluded that the
claims, “Reduce 5 kg Weight in Just 15 Days without
the use of any Harmful Medicine and Machine”, and
“Reduce weight in spite of all types of problems like
hypothyroid, gall bladder stone, kidney stone and
diabetes without any side effects”, were not
substantiated with supporting clinical evidence based
on rigorous trial on statistically significant number of
patients successfully treated at their clinic.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and are
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
149. @ 2012-C.2336 Imayam Educational
Institutions-Imayam College of Engineering
MEDIUM: Dinakaran, Trichy Edition, Supplement
SPL Thozhil Malar, (Tabloid), (25.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is claiming to provide
placements to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “100% Placement” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their college in
relevant industry sectors on completion of their
courses, their appointment letters, list of students who
were not placed and the reason for their non-
placement, nor any independent audit or verification
certificate. Furthermore, the advertisement did not
have any disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no
guarantee of future job prospects” nor did it have a
declaration of the total number of students passing
out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The digital display
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Recommendations – December 2020
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs,
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements,
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
150. @ 2012-C.2337 Indian Academy Group of
Institutions-Indian Academy Degree College
(Autonomus)
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Bangalore Edition,
Supplement Education Times, (English),
(12.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting its
educational institute, an autonomous degree college.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that while the advertiser may be providing
placement assistance to their students for getting jobs
in relevant industries, the use of 100% numerical is
not relevant for “Placement Assistance” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistance
claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students.
The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
151. @ 2012-C.2338 Indian Institute of Carpet
Technology (IICT)
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Varanasi Edition,
Main Issue, (Hindi), (18.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Track Record”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. . The advertiser
was also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is offering various
professional courses. Upon careful consideration of
the complaint, and in the absence of response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“100% Placement Track Record” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their institute in
relevant industry sectors on completion of their
courses, their appointment letters, list of students who
were not placed and the reason for their non-
placement, nor any independent audit or verification
certificate. Furthermore, the advertisement did not
have any disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no
guarantee of future job prospects” nor did it have a
declaration of the total number of students passing
out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs,
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements,
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
152. @ 2012-C.2339 Jayamatha Institute
of Aviation
Recommendations – December 2020
MEDIUM: Daily Thanthi, Tirunelveli Edition, Main
Issue, (English), (11.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “they meant 100% Placement
Assistance only and not 100% placement assurance.
Any how If this is against the norms of the ASCI, the
same will not be repeated in their future
advertisements.”
As the advertiser agreed to delete the claim in their
future advertisements, the advertiser was offered an
option of availing IR of the complaint. However, in
the absence of the advertiser’s response, the
complaint was placed before the CCC for their
deliberation.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the print advertisement and considered the
advertiser’s response. The CCC concluded that while
the advertiser may be providing placement assistance
to their students for getting jobs in relevant industries,
the use of 100% numerical is not relevant for
“Placement Assistance” claim. There cannot be a
percentage assigned to any assistance claim such as
40% or 80% assistance. The use of “100%” as a
descriptor in the claim is misleading by implication
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of students. The Print advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs as well as
Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
The CCC noted the advertiser’s response that the said
claim will not be repeated in their future
advertisements.
153. @ 2012-C.2340 Khandelwal Group of
Institutions-Khandelwal College of
Management Science &Technology (KCMT)
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Bareilly Edition,
Main Issue, (English),(23.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and observed
that the advertiser is promoting its educational
institute/ college in the field of engineering.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that while the advertiser may be providing
placement assistance to their students for getting jobs
in relevant industries, the use of 100% numerical is
not relevant for “Placement Assistance” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistance
claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students.
The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
154. @ 2012-C.2341 KVM Trust- KVM College
of Engineering & Information Technology
MEDIUM: EP Malayala Manorama(*) Alappuzha
Edition, Main Issue, (English), (27.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“50% Scholarship & Placement Assured”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
Recommendations – December 2020
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and observed
that the advertiser is offering B.tech course in
computer sceince with 50% scholarship and
placement assurance.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “50% Scholarship &
Placement Assured” was not substantiated with
authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
provided scholarship through the their college, list of
students who were placed through their institute in
relevant industry sectors on completion of their
courses, their appointment letters, list of students who
were not placed and the reason for their non-
placement, nor any independent audit or verification
certificate.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
155. @ 2012-C.2343 NAMS Ship Management
Pvt. Ltd.
MEDIUM: EP Lokmat, Mumbai Edition,
Supplement Hello Mumbai (English), (11.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Sponsorship available for above courses with 100%
Placement”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “they are a shipping company
providing sponsorship to candidates who are placed
by their company and for which each year they get an
audit conducted by D G SHIPPING GOVT OF
INDIA. They are unable to provide details of
placement done by them, however, the same can be
checked from D G SHIPPING GOVT OF INDIA.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided
Annual inspection report issued in April 2018 and
placement record from January 2019 till December
2020. They also informed that “2019 Annual Audit
was supposed to be conducted in April 2020,
however, due to COVID- 19 pandemic the same will
be done after COVID issues comes to normal.”
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the print advertisement and considered the
advertiser’s response. The CCC observed that the
advertiser had provided list of candidates that were
placed by their company. However they did not
provide authentic supporting data such as batch size
of students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
placed through their institute in relevant industry
sector on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
Based on these observations, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “Sponsorship available for above courses
with 100% Placement” was inadequately
substantiated. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students. The print
advertisement contravened the ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs
and Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code, and
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was UPHELD.
156. @ 2012-C.2344 National Institute of Design
and Technology-NIDT(School of Creativity
and Design)
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Nagpur Edition,
Supplement Nagpur Bhaskar,(English),(15.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100%Job Placement Guarantee
2. 100% job Guarantee
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
Recommendations – December 2020
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting its institute
of design and technology in field of fashion
designing, interior designing, garment designing etc.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claims, “100 Job Placement
Guarantee” and “100% Job Guarantee” were not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of students
and evidence to support their enrolment, contact
details of students for verification, list of students who
were placed through their institute in relevant
industry sectors and Fashion industry on completion
of their courses, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs,
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements,
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
157. @ 2012-C.2345 Northern Institute of
Engineering Technical Campus(NIET Alwar)
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Alwar Edition,
Supplement AlwarBhaskar,(English), (09.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement Assistance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting its
educational institute in the field of engineering, and is
claiming to provide 100% Placement assistance.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that while the advertiser may be providing
placement assistance to their students for getting jobs
in relevant industries, the use of 100% numerical is
not relevant for “Placement Assistance” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any assistance
claim such as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students.
The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, as well as Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the
ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
158. @ 2012-C.2346 Om Muruga College of Arts
and Science
MEDIUM: Daily Thanthi, Salem Edition,
Supplement SPL Thozhil Malar (NP), (Tamil),
(24.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Job Opportunity”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response through their
Advocate.
Advocate on behalf of the advertiser stated that “The
Recommendations – December 2020
usage of “100%” is relevant for the “Job
Opportunity” claim. For instance, if they arrange 10
reputed companies to recruit a B.Com Degree holder
for the designation of ‘Accountant’ in their firms,
they will definitely allow the final year students who
are about to pass the said degree to participate the
interviews conducted by ALL the ten companies. In
other words they will provide 100% Job Opportunity
to the students i.e. allowing the students to
participate the interviews conducted by ALL the ten
invited companies. Whereas if they allow the Batch-1
& Batch-2 students to participate only five interviews
instead of ten interviews, only 50% job opportunity
will be given to Batch-1 & Batch-2 students
respectively. Hence there can be a percentage
assigned to any opportunity claim such as 50% or
80% opportunity.”
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the print advertisement and considered the advocate’s
response. The CCC observed that the advertiser is
claiming to provide Job opportunity to their students.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of satisfactory response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded while the advertiser
may be providing Job Opportunity to their students,
the use of “100%” numerical claim is not relevant for
a “Job opportunity” claim. There cannot be a
percentage assigned to any opportunity claim such as
40% or 80% opportunity. The use of “100%” as a
descriptor in the claim is misleading by implication
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of students. The print advertisement
contravened the ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs and Chapters
1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
159. @ 2012-C.2347 Pearl Academy
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Hyderabad Edition,
Main Issue, (English), (19.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Job Assurance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is offering post-
graduation programs/ courses in design, fashion,
business and media.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “100% Job Assurance” was
not substantiated with authentic supporting data such
as batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their academy in
relevant industry sectors on completion of their
courses, their appointment letters, list of students who
were not placed and the reason for their non-
placement, nor any independent audit or verification
certificate. Furthermore, the advertisement did not
have any disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no
guarantee of future job prospects” nor did it have a
declaration of the total number of students passing
out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs,
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements,
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
160. @ 2012-C.2348 R. R. School and College of
Nursing
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), New Delhi Edition,
Supplement Jagran City, (English), (19.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
Recommendations – December 2020
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is offering coaching for
nursing courses. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “100%
Placement” was not substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as batch size of students per
year, detailed list of students and evidence to support
their enrolment, contact details of students for
verification, list of students who were placed through
their college in the Healthcare industry on completion
of their courses, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs,
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements,
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
161. @ 2012-C.2349 RRM Group of Colleges-
Radhadevi Ramchandra Mangal School of
Management & Research
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), RatlamEdition, Main
Issue, (Hindi), (15.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. . The advertiser
was also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement. Upon
careful consideration of the complaint, and in the
absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “100% Placement” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of students
and evidence to support their enrolment, contact
details of students for verification, list of students who
were placed through their college in relevant industry
sectors on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs,
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements,
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
162. @ 2012-C.2350 Mangalayatan
University, Jabalpur
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*), Jabalpur Edition,
Main Issue, (English), (28.09.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Job Assurance”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
Recommendations – December 2020
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is providing coaching for
various professional courses.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “100% Job Assurance” was
not substantiated with authentic supporting data such
as batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their university in
relevant industry sectors on completion of their
courses, their appointment letters, list of students who
were not placed and the reason for their non-
placement, nor any independent audit or verification
certificate. Furthermore, the advertisement did not
have any disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no
guarantee of future job prospects” nor did it have a
declaration of the total number of students passing
out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs,
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements,
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
163. @ 2012-C.2351 Tagore Institute of
Engineering &Technology
MEDIUM: Daily Thanthi, Salem Edition, Main
Issue, (Tamil), (14.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement. Upon
careful consideration of the complaint, and in the
absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “100% Placement” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of students
and evidence to support their enrolment, contact
details of students for verification, list of students who
were placed through their institute in relevant
industry sectors on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Advertising of Educational Institutions and Programs,
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements,
as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
164. @ 2012-C.2353 Adina Group of Institutions
MEDIUM: Dainik Bhaskar(*),Sagar Edition, Main
Issue, (Hindi), (14.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Placement Assistance
2. India Rankings 2018 Rank #1 in M.P. Private
Pharmacy Colleges
3. Awarded as Best Institution in Academics in
Madhya Pradesh-CCLA Indian Education Leadership
Summit & Award 2017
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
Recommendations – December 2020
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting its
educational institution in field of engineering and
pharmacy.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that while the advertiser may be
providing placement assistance to their students for
getting jobs in relevant industry sectors, the use of
100% numerical is not relevant for “Placement
Assistance” claim. There cannot be a percentage
assigned to any assistance claim such as 40% or 80%
assistance. The use of “100%” as a descriptor in the
claim is misleading by implication and is likely to
lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students.
The claims, “India Rankings 2018 Rank #1 in M.P.
Private Pharmacy Colleges” and “Awarded as Best
Institution in Academics in Madhya Pradesh-CCLA
Indian Education Leadership Summit & Award
2017”, were not substantiated with a copy of the
awards certificate, details of the process for awards
selection, criteria for granting the awards, survey
methodology, parameters considered, questionnaires
used, names of other similar institutes that were part
of the survey, the outcome of the survey, and the details
of the awarding body. The source of the claims was not
mentioned in the advertisement.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and is
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Usage of Awards/Rankings in Advertisements, ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, as well as Chapters 1.1, I.2, 1.4 and
1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
165. @ 2012-C.2356 D. Y. Patil Education Society
(Deemed to be University), Kolhapur-D.Y.
Patil School of Hospitality
MEDIUM: EP Daily Sakal(*), Kolhapur Edition,
Main Issue (English) (23.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Job Guarantee”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail but submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that, “This is their second batch and
second year of D Y Patil School of Hospitality. In the
academic year 2019-20, 47 students were admitted to
the first year and in 2020-21, 34 have been admitted.
It is a commitment from the promoters that they
would absorb 100% students at their Hotel Sayaji by
giving them offer letters once they complete the 3
years degree course B.Sc. in Hospitality Studies.”
As the advertiser’s response had only assertions
about the claim, ASCI Secretariat requested the
advertiser to provide supporting data of students who
were offered jobs by them. Advertiser responded that
“they has been started in the academic year 2019-
2020. They will be in the process of doing placements
in the year 2022-2023. The B.Sc. (HS) programme is
of three years duration. Hence the information asked
for is not applicable right now. The term ‘100% Job
Guarantee’ was used with an intention to give Job
placements to all the passing students as the
promoters have their own Three-Star Luxury Hotel.”
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed
the print advertisement and considered the
advertiser’s response. The CCC observed that, since
the duration of the course offered by the advertiser’s
Institute is three years and the advertiser’s institute
has completed only two years, the advertiser cannot
provide 100% job guarantee to their students. The
CCC was of the opinion that it is not possible for the
advertiser to have data for the claim made, since the
advertiser’s institute has completed only two years. It
was unlikely for the advertiser to have support data
such as batch size of students per year, detailed list of
students and evidence to support their enrolment,
contact details of students for verification, list of
students who were placed through their university in
relevant industry sectors on completion of their
B.Com Logistics courses, their appointment letters,
list of students who were not placed and the reason
for their non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate, to substantiate the claim.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to cause widespread disappointment in the minds of
the students. The print advertisement contravened
ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs and Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and
Recommendations – December 2020
I.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
166. @ 2012-C.2357 Indra Institute of
Paramedical Sciences and Nursing College
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Varanasi Edition,
Main Issue, (Hindi), (19.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placement in Health Department”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the concerned Media (Jagran
Prakashan Ltd) for their assistance in providing the
contact details of the advertiser, or to forward the
complaint to the advertiser. The CCC noted that no
response was received from the advertiser or from the
concerned media prior to the due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and observed
that the advertiser is offering nursing and paramedical
courses. Upon careful consideration of the complaint,
and in the absence of response from the advertiser,
the CCC concluded that the claim, “100% Placement
in Health Department” was not substantiated with
authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
placed through their institute in healthcare industry
on completion of their courses, their appointment
letters, list of students who were not placed and the
reason for their non-placement, nor any independent
audit or verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
made in supporting, limiting or explaining claims
made in advertisements. This complaint was
UPHELD.
167. @ 2012-C.2360 Kamala Niketan Montessori
School
MEDIUM: Dinamalar, Trichy Edition, Main
Issue,(English), (07.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“British Council International School Award 2016-
2019”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecom with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did
not avail nor did they submit their written response.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that
no response was received from the advertiser prior to
the prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting its
Montessori School and is claiming to have been
awarded with `British Council International School
Award 2016-2019’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “British Council
International School Award 2016-2019” was not
substantiated a copy of the award certificate, details
of the process for award selection, criteria for granting
the award, survey methodology, parameters
considered, questionnaires used, names of other
similar schools that were part of the survey, the
outcome of the survey, and the details of the awarding
body. The source for the claim was not indicated in
the advertisement. Based on the precedence of similar
complaints processed for this claim for other institutes,
the CCC expressed concern over the usage of an
accreditation presented as an award and for not
mentioning what the accreditation was for, in the
advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs, Chapters 1.1, 1.2, 1.4 and
1.5 of the ASCI Code as well as ASCI Guidelines for
Usage of Awards/Rankings in Advertisements. This
complaint was UPHELD.
168. @ 2012-C.2361 Orane International School
of Beauty & Wellness
MEDIUM: EP Hindustan(*), Nainital Edition, Main
Issue, (Hindi), (30.10.2020)
Recommendations – December 2020
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Job Oriented Courses
2. Awarded World’s Greatest Brands& Leaders in
Skill Training
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is offering beauty and
makeup courses. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that while the courses
being offered by the advertiser may be job oriented,
the use of 100% numerical is not relevant for “job
oriented courses” claim. The use of “100%” as a
descriptor in the claim is misleading by implication,
and is likely to lead to grave or widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers.
The claim, “Awarded World’s Greatest Brands&
Leaders in Skill Training” was not substantiated with
a copy of the award certificate, details of the process
for award selection, criteria for granting the award,
survey methodology, parameters considered,
questionnaires used, names of other similar institutes/
schools that were part of the survey, the outcome of
the survey, and the details of the awarding body. The
source for the claim was not indicated in the
advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers including students. The print
advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines for
Usage of Awards/Rankings in Advertisements, ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs, as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
169. @ 2012-C.2364 Prasad Group of
Institutions- Prasad Polytechnic, Jaunpur
MEDIUM: EP Amar Ujala(*), Varanasi Edition,
Main Issue, (Hindi), (21.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“100% Placements through Virtual Interview”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but replied
that they would respond soon. However, the
advertiser did not submit their response prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) viewed the
print advertisement and observed that the Advertiser’s
institute is providing coaching to their students in the
field of engineering.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of claim support data, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “100% Placements through
Virtual Interview” was not substantiated with
authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
placed through their Institute in relevant industry
sectors on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened the
ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs, Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5
of the ASCI Code, ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
made in supporting, limiting or explaining claims
made in advertisements. This complaint was
UPHELD.
170. @ 2012-C.2366 Sandip University
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), Ahmedabad Edition,
Supplement SPL Times Top Institutes, (English)
(09.10.2020)
Recommendations – December 2020
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Sandip University proudly provides 100%
Placement assistance to all students each year
through annual placement drives”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for their
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. Given the nature of the claim, the
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat,
which they did not avail nor did they submit their
written response. The Consumer Complaints Council
(CCC) noted that no response was received from the
advertiser prior to the prescribed due date for this
complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is claiming to provide
`100% Placement assistance to all students each year
through annual placement drives’.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that while the advertiser may be providing
placement assistance to their students for getting jobs
in relevant industries, the use of 100% numerical is
not relevant for “…….proudly provides 100%
Placement assistance to all students each year
through annual placement drives” claim. There cannot
be a percentage assigned to any assistance claim such
as 40% or 80% assistance. The use of “100%” as a
descriptor in the claim is misleading by implication
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of students. The print advertisement
contravened ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of
Educational Institutions and Programs, as well as
Chapters 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
171. @ 2012-C.2369 Sri Vivekananda Police
Academy
MEDIUM: EP Dinakaran, Pondicherry Edition,
Main Issue, (Tamil), (16.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Government Job In 50 Days! 100% Guarantee”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is offering coaching for
police courses.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “Government Job In 50
Days! 100% Guarantee” was not substantiated with
authentic supporting data such as batch size of
students per year, detailed list of students and
evidence to support their enrolment, contact details of
students for verification, list of students who were
placed through their academy in Government
companies / police departments on completion of
their courses, their appointment letters, list of
students who were not placed and the reason for their
non-placement, nor any independent audit or
verification certificate. Furthermore, the
advertisement did not have any disclaimers to
indicate “Past record is no guarantee of future job
prospects” nor did it have a declaration of the total
number of students passing out from the placed class.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters I.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code, and ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
made in supporting, limiting or explaining claims
made in advertisements. This complaint was
UPHELD.
172. @ 2012-C.2370 Sudharshana
Polytechnic College
MEDIUM: Daily Thanthi,Trichy Edition,
Supplement SPL Thozhil Malar (TAB), (Tamil),
(25.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. 100% Job Opportunity
2. Job Opportunity Is Guaranteed
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
Recommendations – December 2020
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claims objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claims with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed print advertisement and observed
that the advertiser is offering various professional
courses.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that while the advertiser may be providing
job opportunity to their students for getting jobs in
relevant industry sectors, the use of 100% numerical
is not relevant for “Job Opportunity” claim. There
cannot be a percentage assigned to any opportunity
claim such as 40% or 80% opportunity. The use of
“100%” as a descriptor in the claim is misleading by
implication and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of students.
Claim, “Job Opportunity is Guaranteed” was not
substantiated with authentic supporting data such as
batch size of students per year, detailed list of students
and evidence to support their enrolment, contact
details of students for verification, list of students
who were placed through their college in relevant
industry sectors on completion of their courses, their
appointment letters, list of students who were not
placed and the reason for their non-placement, nor
any independent audit or verification certificate.
Furthermore, the advertisement did not have any
disclaimers to indicate “Past record is no guarantee of
future job prospects” nor did it have a declaration of
the total number of students passing out from the
placed class. The claim is misleading by exaggeration
and is likely to lead to widespread disappointment in
the minds of consumers including students.
The print advertisement contravened ASCI Guidelines
for Advertising of Educational Institutions and
Programs, ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in
supporting, limiting or explaining claims made in
advertisements, as well as Chapters I.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
173. @ 2012-C.2371 The NEET School
MEDIUM: EP Ananda Bazar Patrika, Kolkata
Edition, Main Issue, (Bengali), (13.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“We won’t promise AIR 3.7.11.,55,191,211 or any
other number…But will GUARANTEE confirmed
selection in a GOVERNMENT MEDICAL
COLLEGE”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in
the advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the
claim with the required supporting data. The
advertiser was also offered an opportunity for a
telecon with the ASCI Secretariat, which they did not
avail nor did they submit their written response. The
Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no
response was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and observed
that the advertiser is providing coaching for NEET
exams, and is claiming to give confirmed selection in
a Government Medical College.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claim, “We won’t promise AIR
3.7.11.,55,191,211 or any other number…But will
GUARANTEE confirmed selection in a
GOVERNMENT MEDICAL COLLEGE”, was not
substantiated with detailed list of students who
achieved success in NEET exams were selected in
Government medical college, evidence to support
their enrolment, and their contact details for
independent verification by ASCI. The claim was
also not backed by an independent third party
validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened ASCI
Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions
and Programs as well as Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of
the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
174. @ 2012-C.2372 TIPS Eduvision
MEDIUM: Daily Thanthi, Erode Edition, Main
Issue, (English), (21.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Achievements in NEET & JEE since 3 years- 100%
Recommendations – December 2020
of our NEET aspirants have cleared the NEET exam”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser provided information with respect to the
total number of students who cleared NEET exams in
2018, 2019 and 2020.
As this response being inadequate, ASCI Secretariat
requested the advertiser to provide evidence of
students who had cleared the NEET exams. As the
advertiser did not submit this data within the given
timelines, the complaint was processed for CCC
deliberation.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
considered the advertiser’s response. The CCC
observed that the advertiser’s response had only
assertions about their claim. In the absence of claim
support data, the CCC concluded that the claim
“Achievements in NEET & JEE since 3 years- 100%
of our NEET aspirants have cleared the NEET
exam”, was inadequately substantiated with authentic
supporting data such as detailed list of students for the
last 3 years who had achieved success in NEET and
JEE exams, and had cleared NEET exams, evidence
to support their enrollment, contact details of students
for independent verification, nor the claim was backed
by an independent third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
students. The print advertisement contravened the
ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational
Institutions and Programs and Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and
1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
AYUSH Complaints:
175. @ 2012-C.2321 Yogi Ayurveda – Fat Attack
MEDIUM: Punjab Kesari, Chandigarh
Edition, Main Issue (Hindi) (21.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. Reduce Weight
2. 100% Result Oriented
3. No Diet, No Exercise
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claims
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting a capsule/
ayurvedic supplement to reduce fats. The advertiser
also claims that the supplements are 100% result
oriented without any diet or exercise. However, the
advertiser did not submit any product specific details
such as composition, licence, pack artwork or
samples.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of response from the advertiser, the CCC
concluded that the claims, “Reduce Weight”, “100%
Result Oriented” and “No Diet, No Exercise” were
not substantiated with any clinical evidence of
product efficacy. The claim is misleading by
exaggeration and is likely to lead to widespread
disappointment in the minds of consumers
particularly patients suffering from obesity. The print
advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5
of the ASCI Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
176. @ 2012-C.2378 Upakarma Ayurveda Pvt
Ltd - Upakarma Pure Shilajit Resin
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
http://latimes.com, (English) (24.11.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“1st Pure Shilajit Resin in India”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
Recommendations – December 2020
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting a Shilajit
resin, commonly used in ayurvedic medicines. The
advertiser also claims that they are providing pure
Shilajit resin in India.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “1st
Pure Shilajit Resin in India” was not substantiated
with verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
product versus other similar products in India, to
prove that their product is the first purest Shilajit
resin, nor the claim was backed by a third party
validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
FSSAI Complaints:
177. Suo Motu 2012-C.2279 Tata Consumer
Products Limited(*) (Tata Salt Lite)
MEDIUM: YouTube(*)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNTGeInAp3U
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“छो टो छो टो बो तो ो ो पर गो स्सो आनो ब्लड
प्रो शर बढो नो को ननशो नो है”
This is wrong. People with low BP fly off the handle
at the slightest excuse. No need to reduce salt intake.
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the objections raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an opportunity
to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint
and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat to seek
further guidance, which they did not avail but replied
requesting for an extension to submit their written
response.
The deadlines stipulated by Consumer Complaints
Council (CCC) procedure exist keeping in mind the
immediate and widespread impact that advertisements
have on the public. Consequently, any action which is
needed to be taken with respect to the same is
required to be prompt and urgent. It is for this
purpose that the deadlines, as stipulated, are set for
advertisers/broadcasters etc. and the CCC itself
makes it a priority to deal with every complaint
before it as expeditiously as possible. However, as a
special gesture, the advertiser was granted an
extension of additional one business day to respond.
Advertiser in their response stated that “the
challenged statement is a fact that summarizes the
well-accepted physiological phenomenon of increased
heart rate and blood circulation as a result of
expressing harsh emotions such as anger (Ref:-
Annexures C, D and E; relevant sections highlighted
in the attached files); b) Increased frequency of such
events is opined to be associated with hypertension
(Ref:-Annexures F and G; relevant sections
highlighted in the attached files); c) Reduction of
dietary sodium is one of the suggestions to manage
hypertension. A large number of scientific reports
have linked anger with hypertension; however, no
such information has been found in association with
low blood pressure. They through this advertisement,
have tried alerting the consumer to the possibility of
hypertension and the potential dietary means of
initiating action, with brevity. There are ample
disclaimers relevant to the nature of the product and
its use to caution the viewer.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided – (1)
Copy of annexures (scientific references) referred in
their response, (2) Product Label of Tata Salt Lite, (3)
Copy of Product Approval received from FSSAI in
respect of said product, (4) Soft copy of the
advertisement.
The CCC viewed the YouTube advertisement
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNTGeInAp3U
) and considered the advertiser’s response. The CCC
noted that the advertisement indicates that anger is
the main cause of high blood pressure and that a
person with anger issues should reduce his or her
sodium intake and choose the advertiser’s product to
aid such problems. The CCC opined that this might
not be accurate as people with low blood pressure
may also have similar anger issues.
The CCC further deliberated that low/ high blood
pressure can be a result of various other underlying
issues and factors in the human body. Similarly,
anger/ being short tempered is an individual trait and
depends on an Individual’s temperament. A person
may be an aggressive human being by nature but the
same does not imply that such a person is necessarily
suffering from high blood pressure. The
advertisement portrays that the advertiser’s product
controls high blood pressure issues, which is not the
case.
The CCC further viewed the disclaimer provided by
the advertiser in the advertisement and discussed that
the disclaimer has clearly explained that low sodium
is harmful for people who are on a potassium
restricted diet. The CCC also pointed that the
Recommendations – December 2020
disclaimer provided in the advertisement was not
clearly legible due to the white colour used in the
font and the disclaimer was also lengthy which
consumer might not be able to read all at once having
regard to the duration for which the disclaimer is
shown.
Based on these observations, the CCC concluded that
the claim, “छ ट छ ट ब त पर ग स्स आन ब्लड प्र शर
बढ़न क ननश न है” was inadequately substantiated
and is misleading by ambiguity. The claim is likely to
cause grave and widespread disappointment in the
minds of the consumers. The YouTube advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code as well as the ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers
in Advertising. This complaint was UPHELD.
178. @ 2012-C.2307 Mother Dairy Fruit &
Vegetable Pvt Ltd-Mother Dairy Paneer
MEDIUM: Times of India(*), New Delhi Edition,
Main Issue (English) (19.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The Most Delicious and Hygienically Packed
Mother Dairy Paneer”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting a Paneer
product - Mother Dairy Paneer.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “The
Most Delicious and Hygienically Packed Mother
Dairy Paneer” was not substantiated with any market
survey data or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s product versus other Paneer brands, to
prove that the advertiser’s product is more delicious
than all the rest, and is also hygienic in terms of
packing, nor the claim was backed by a third party
validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
179. @ 2012-C.2308 Lohiya Edible Oils Pvt Ltd -
Gold Drop Sunflower Oil
MEDIUM: Eenadu(*), Vijayawad Edition, Main
Issue (Telugu) (18.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Asia's Most Trusted Brand - 2019, Brand Research
Report”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting a food
product - Gold Drop sunflower oil.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “Asia's
Most Trusted Brand - 2019, Brand Research Report”
was not substantiated with copy of the award
certificate, details of the process for award selection,
criteria for granting the award, survey methodology,
parameters considered, questionnaires used, names of
other sunflower oil brands that were part of the
survey, the outcome of the survey and the details of
the awarding body. The source for the claim was not
indicated in the advertisement.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters I.1, I.2, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code and
Guidelines for Usage of Awards/Rankings in
Advertisements. This complaint was UPHELD.
180. @ 2012-C.2309 The Simla’s Ashok Group-
Kayam Pan Paras Pan Masala
Recommendations – December 2020
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Allahabad Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (17.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claims objected to:
1. First Choice of Prayagraj
2. Contain Silver and Saffron
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objections raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claims objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claims
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting a pan
masala product – Paras Pan Masala. The CCC
observed that the advertiser is claiming their product
to be the first choice of consumers in Prayagraj and
that is contains silver and saffron.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, “First
Choice of Prayagraj” was not substantiated with any
market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s product versus other pan
masala products in Prayagraj, to prove that the
advertiser’s product is the first choice of the
consumers, nor the claim was backed by a third party
validation. The claim “Contain Silver and Saffron”
was not substantiated with supporting data showing
presence of these ingredients in the product.
The claims are misleading by exaggeration and is
likely to lead to widespread disappointment in the
minds of consumers. The print advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
181. @ 2012-C.2310 Vay India & 7 Hills
Manikchand- Manikchand Pan Masala
MEDIUM: Divya Bhaskar(*), Vadodara Edition,
Main Issue (Gujarati) (19.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Excellent Opportunity to Connect with India's
Largest Pan masala Brand”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser (Distributors) for
its response in addressing the objection raised in the
complaint. The advertiser was offered an option to
seek Informal Resolution (IR) of the complaint by
modifying or withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response was
received from the advertiser prior to the prescribed
due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting their pan
masala product - Manikchand Pan Masala.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint and in
the absence of any comments or response from the
advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Excellent Opportunity to Connect with India's
Largest Pan masala Brand” was not substantiated
with verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
product versus other Pan masala products in India, to
prove that their product is larger than all the rest, nor
the claim was backed by a third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
182. @ 2012-C.2311 Vijayalakshmi Dall Mill-
Deer Orid Dall Range of Products
MEDIUM: EP Sakshi, Hyderabad Edition, Main
Issue (Telugu) (17.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 in Quantity and Quality”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
Recommendations – December 2020
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting their Dall
range of products. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“No.1 in Quantity and Quality” was not substantiated
with verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
product and other similar brands of Dall, to prove
that they are in leadership position (No.1) for its
quantity and quality, in terms of market share by
value/volume. The claim was also not backed by an
independent third party validation. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
183. @ 2012-C.2313 Gopan Tobacco Products
Pvt. Ltd – Kool Pan Masala (Range of
Products)
MEDIUM: Rajasthan Patrika(*), Jaipur Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (04.11.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Rajasthan's No.1 Kool Pan Masala”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser their Pan Masala product
– Kool Pan Masala. Upon careful consideration of the
complaint, and in the absence of any response from
the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim,
“Rajasthan's No.1 Kool Pan Masala” was not
substantiated with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s product and other similar pan masala
product in Rajasthan, to prove that they are in
leadership position (No.1), or through an independent
third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
184. @ 2012-C.2314 Gopan Tobacco Products
Pvt. Ltd – Kake Shri Pan Masala (Range of
Products)
MEDIUM: EP Nai Duniya(*), Indore Edition, Main
Issue(Hindi) (29.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Madhya Pradesh's No.1 Kake Shri Pan Masala”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is product their Pan
Masala product - Kake Shri Pan Masala. Upon careful
consideration of the complaint, and in the absence of
any response from the advertiser, the CCC concluded
that the claim, “Madhya Pradesh's No.1 Kake Shri
Pan Masala” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s product and other
pan masala products in Madhya Pradesh, to prove that
they are in leadership position (No.1), or through an
independent third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
185. @ 2012-C.2318 Priyom Premium Product-
Range of Products
Recommendations – December 2020
MEDIUM: EP Mathrubhumi(*), Kochi Edition,
Main Issue (Malayalam) (27.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“No.1 Favourite of Housewives”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting their food
products such as Masalas, wheat products, spices,
snacks, bread, cake, Jam, sauce, pickles etc. The
advertiser is claiming their products to be the No.1
favourite of Housewives.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “No.1 Favourite of
Housewives” was not substantiated with verifiable
comparative data of the advertiser’s food products
and other similar food brands in the market, to prove
that they are in leadership position (No.1) of
Housewives, or through an independent third party
validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
186. @ 2012-C.2319 Querido Eatables - Querido
Range of Products
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Dhanbad Edition,
Main Issue (Hindi) (22.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Best in Quality and Best in Taste”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting food and
snacks products, and is claiming it to be best in
quality and taste.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Best in Quality and
Best in Taste” was not substantiated with any market
survey data or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s food products versus other similar food
and snack products, to prove that they are better than
all the rest in taste and quality, nor the claim was
backed by a third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers.
The print advertisement contravened Chapters 1.1,
1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This complaint was
UPHELD.
187. @ 2012-C.2320 Khochage Agro Food &
Beverages- Veleta Mineral Water
MEDIUM: EP Daily Sakal(*), Kolhapur Edition,
Supplement Kolhapur Today (English) (17.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Purest & Healthiest Water”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
Recommendations – December 2020
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting packaged
drinking water claiming it to be purest and healthiest
water. Advertiser did not provide any specific
information for the product such as copy of Product
approval license, product label, and Product
composition details.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Purest & Healthiest
Water” was not substantiated with clinical test
reports, or clinical evidence of product efficacy.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters I.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
188. @ 2012-C.2322 Beyond Temptation
MEDIUM: EP Dainik Jagran(*), Jamshedpur
Edition, Main Issue (English) (04.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Best Thick Shake Cold Coffee in Your State”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is a fast food outlet
selling food items – coffee, burger, sandwich and ice
cream. The advertiser is claiming that they provide
best thick cold coffee in Jharkhand.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Best Thick Shake
Cold Coffee in Your State” was not substantiated with
any market survey data or with verifiable comparative
data of the advertiser’s cold coffee versus other thick
shakes/cold coffee products in Jharkhand, to prove
that their product is better than all the rest, nor the
claim was backed by a third party validation. The
claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely to
lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
189. @ 2012-C.2323 Aesthetic Nutrition Pvt Ltd -
Power Gummies
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
http://boxofficeindia.co m , (English) (06.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“#1 Hair Vitamin”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://boxofficeindia.com) and observed that the
advertiser is promoting Power Gummies hair
vitamins for hair growth. Upon careful consideration
of the complaint, and in the absence of any response
from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the
claim, “#1 Hair Vitamin” was not substantiated with
verifiable comparative data of the market share by
value/volume of the advertiser’s product and other
similar hair vitamin products, to prove that their
product is in leadership position (No.1), or through
an independent third party validation. The claim is
misleading by exaggeration and is likely to lead to
widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The digital display advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4, and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
190. @ 2012-C.2330 Alfreshco Foods- Edibleora
& Ediheal Oil range of Products
MEDIUM: Gujarat Samachar, Rajkot Edition,
Main Issue (Gujarati) (26.10.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Recommendations – December 2020
Claim objected to:
“Best Quality - Guarantee”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the print advertisement and
observed that the advertiser is promoting their food
oil product such as peanut oil, sunflower oil, coconut
oil, mustard oil etc. The advertiser is guaranteeing
their oil products to be of best quality.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Best Quality -
Guarantee” was not substantiated with any market
survey data or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s food oil products versus other similar
food oil products, to prove that their products are
better than the rest in quality, nor the claim was
backed by a third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The print advertisement contravened
Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
191. @ 2012-C.2380 Parakh Foods and Oils
Limited - Vilina Refined Sunflower Oil
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
http://hebbarskitchen.c om, (English) (05.11.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“The Best Quality Cooking Oil”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://hebbarskitchen.com) and observed that the
advertiser is in the promoting a food oil product -
Vilina Refined Sunflower Oil claiming it to be of best
quality.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “The Best Quality
Cooking Oil” was not substantiated with any market
survey data or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s cooking oil brand versus other similar
brands, to prove that their cooking oil is better than
the rest in quality, nor the claim was backed by a third
party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The digital display advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
192. @ 2012-C.2381 Nutritionalab Pvt. Ltd.
(Wellbeing Nutrition)-Daily Greens
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
http://voidcan.org, (English) (06.11.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Best Zinc Tablets”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response
in addressing the objection raised in the complaint.
The advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://voidcan.org) and observed that the advertiser
is promoting zinc tablets for daily dose of vitamins to
maintain immune system.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
Recommendations – December 2020
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Best Zinc Tablets”
was not substantiated with any market survey data or
with verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s
tablets versus other zinc tablets brands, to prove that
their product is better than the rest, nor the claim was
backed by a third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The digital display advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
193. @ 2012-C.2382 Nutritionalab Pvt. Ltd.
(Wellbeing Nutrition)-Daily Greens
MEDIUM: Digital Display,
http://kidhealthcenter.com, (English) (04.11.2020)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Claim objected to:
“Best Vitamin C Tablets to Manage Blood Pressure
and Heart Health Naturally”
CCC RECOMMENDATION: Exparte
The ASCI approached the advertiser for its response in
addressing the objection raised in the complaint. The
advertiser was offered an option to seek Informal
Resolution (IR) of the complaint by modifying or
withdrawing the claim objected to in the
advertisement, or alternately to substantiate the claim
with the required supporting data. The advertiser was
also offered an opportunity for a telecon with the
ASCI Secretariat, which they did not avail nor did
they submit their written response. The Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) noted that no response
was received from the advertiser prior to the
prescribed due date for this complaint.
The CCC viewed the digital display advertisement
(http://kidhealthcenter.com) and observed that the
advertiser is promoting Vitamin C tablets to manage
blood pressure and heart health.
Upon careful consideration of the complaint, and in
the absence of any response from the advertiser, the
CCC concluded that the claim, “Best Vitamin C
Tablets to Manage Blood Pressure and Heart Health
Naturally” was not substantiated with any market
survey data or with verifiable comparative data of the
advertiser’s Vitamin C tablets versus other similar
Vitamin C tablet brands, to prove that their product is
better than the rest, nor the claim was backed by a
third party validation.
The claim is misleading by exaggeration and is likely
to lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of
consumers. The digital display advertisement
contravened Chapters 1.1, 1.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
1. 2012-CCC-R.10 (2006-C.994) Eureka
Forbes Ltd(*) – Forbes Coronaguard
NAME OF THE COMPLAINT: TREELabs
Foundation
MEDIUM: Ad-Brochure
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Complaint received against the Ad-Brochure of
“Eureka Forbes Ltd – Forbes Coronaguard”, from
TREELabs Foundation.
on page 10 of the presentation it says:
"Its Hypercharged canon fires trillions (10-100
trillion electrons per second) of negatively charged
electrons"
on page 11:
"Creating an electron cloud across closed spaces"
on page 12:
"The negatively charged electrons neutralise the
positively charged S-Proteins on every virus particle"
on page 13:
"It provides complete coverage in every corner and
on every surface"
on page 14:
"Up to 99.9% viruses disabled on surfaces and in the
air, giving you real-time protection against infection
from coronaviruses in closed spaces"
The inventor himself comes on NDTV and talks
about it:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Fgz2jdFwtM
This appears to make many fraudulent claims, and
take advantage of people's fear of covid19. This
product needs to be removed and news-channels
promoting it must clarify to their audience about it so
that people are not fooled.
As a scientist, I find the claims made by the inventor
to be defying the laws of physics.
The device is shown as spewing (like a canon),
particles / electrons inside a room, and claims are
made that in the process the region becomes
sanitized.
Unfortunately, free electrons have very short paths in
ambient air.
The mean free path of electrons in air (at atmospheric
pressure) is less than a micron. How does the
inventor claim that the electrons will be spewed
across a room of size 10,000 cubic ft?
In the interview (youtube link provided), the
language used by the inventor to describe the
mechanism of it working is rather clumsy and
Recommendations – December 2020
amateurish (scientifically). He claims energetic
photons are produced, which in turn produces
secondary electrons, which in turn would neutralize
the virus receptors ! High energy photons (if that is
what is spewed in the environment) are equally
damaging to living cells. Even UVC is very
damaging, which is barely capable of photoemission
of electrons from most surfaces (5eV energy).
I request the product to be immediately suspended for
use in India (and elsewhere if possible) until a
scientific investigation is carried out by capable
scientists. Our requests to the Mexican agency, which
is mentioned in the article as having done tests on
this system, to give us a copy of their report on this
product did not yield any answers yet.
We plan to send this complaint to the PMO and other
relevant ministries also. Speedy action is necessary.
Let us not let people get looted during a pandemic ”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered an
opportunity to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat
to seek further guidance, which they did not avail but
submitted their written response.
Advertiser stated that “they have entered into an
International Humanitarian Collaboration
Agreement for manufacturing, marketing and
distribution rights for SHYCOCAN. They have
launched 'Forbes Coronaguard Powered by
SHYCOCAN' which is proven to attenuate 99.9% of
corona family of virus in enclosed spaces.”
For the claims, "Its Hypercharged canon fires trillions
(10-100 trillion electrons per second) of negatively
charged electrons", and "Creating an electron cloud
across closed spaces", the advertiser responded
that “The inventor's organization i.e. Organization de
Scalene has conducted a test to confirm functional
effectiveness and mapping the field of effectiveness of
SHYCOCAN. This report clearly proves the
generation of electrons in trillions from the photon
discharge and the electrons are available across the
closed spaces (up to 10,000cubic ft).”
For the claim, "The negatively charged electrons
neutralise the positively charged S-Proteins on every
virus particle", the advertiser submitted that “Corona
virus is a Positive sense enveloped mRNA virus,
which is negative seeking.” Advertiser referred to a
report on `Enhanced Binding of SARS-CoV‐2 Spike
Protein to Receptor by Distal Polybasic Cleavage
Sites’ (https://dx.doi.org/10.1021/acsnano.Oc04798),
and stated that “The hypercharge high velocity
photon mediated electrons interact with the negative
seeking S-protein of Corona family viruses thereby
attenuating them. This reduces the infectivity and
prevents transmission of Corona family of viruses.
This clearly proves the Spike Protein of Corona
Viruses are negative seeking and the negatively
charged electrons neutralise the positively charged
S-Proteins on virus particles.”
For claims, "It provides complete coverage in every
corner and on every surface", and "Up to 99.9%
viruses disabled on surfaces and in the air, giving you
real-time protection against infection from
coronaviruses in closed spaces'' – the advertiser
indicated that “A Virucidal Activity test Report for the
SHYCOCAN Device dated June 16, 2020 is
available. An excerpt of the report from the lab
(https:lllei.mx/) are reproduced which concludes that
SHYCOCAN attenuates 99.9% of coronavirus in
closed spaces. An excerpts of the report from
Aquadiagnostic Water research and Technology
Centre Ltd is reproduced which provides test data of
Coronaguard in decontamination of different
microorganisms on surfaces.”
As claim support data, the advertiser provided - (1)
Organization de Scalene - Functional Field Mapping
study, (2) Virucidal Activity test -Mexico Virology
Shycocan Report, (3) AWRTC report - Test Data of
Coronaguard in Decontamination of Different
Microorganisms on Surfaces, (4) UL EMC EMI
Shycocan report, (5) Report on Fungal Spores Study,
(6) Report on Bacteria Behaviour Study.
The complaint and the advertiser’s response with the
claim support data was referred to an independent
technical expert of ASCI. The expert opinion was
shared with the advertiser for making any additional
submissions. The advertiser was also offered an
opportunity for IR at this stage based on the expert
opinion. The expert opinion was also provided to the
complainant on their request.
The advertiser did not opt for an IR but sought for a
meeting with the technical expert, which was
arranged by the ASCI Secretariat through Zoom
video conference.Post meeting with the ASCI
Secretariat and the technical expert, the advertiser
submitted their additional data which was shared with
the technical expert for his final opinion.
Based on the advertiser’s data, the technical expert
submitted his final opinion for the Consumer
Complaints Council (CCC) to consider. The CCC
viewed the Ad – Brochure and considered the
advertiser’s response as well as the opinion of the
Technical expert presented at the meeting.
The CCC observed that the excerpts of the
Equipment Test Report performed in their own
Recommendations – December 2020
laboratory Scalene Cybernetics Ltd. were made
available by the advertiser. However a complete
report was not submitted. The report is the result of
the internal lab testing, and no external testing lab
report was submitted.
To validate the claim against complaint no. 1 and 2,
the Equipment Testing Reports for the device from
an accredited laboratory are required to be submitted
to support the claims. Although Mexico lab was
claimed to be a National lab the fact remains that it is
not an accredited laboratory.
In response to complaint no.3 the advertiser states
that, `Corona virus is a Positive sense enveloped
mRNA virus, which is negative seeking’ is not
correct. The `Positive sense’ term in relation to any
virus is used to describe that the ‘virus mRNA itself
is ready to act as a template for viral replication’. It is
not used to describe that it has positive charge that
attracts negatively charged particles.
The Virucidal Activity test Report for the
SHYCOCAN Device, which concludes that
SHYCOCAN attenuates 99.9% of coronavirus in
closed spaces was not acceptable. The limitations of
penetration of photons/electrons through barriers
could not be answered satisfactorily. The claim of
‘Virucidal activity using ‘Equine arteritis virus’
belonging to the Arteriviridae family as a test virus,
was not acceptable. The fact remains that Equine
arteritis virus (EAV) does not belong to the
Coronaviridae family as was claimed in the
advertisement.
To prove efficacy against SARS Cov-2 Corona
viruses, other corona viruses may be used as
surrogate viruses, as they can be handled in BSL-2
facilities. The Equine arteritis virus, which has been
used in testing, belongs to the Arteriviridae family
and not Coronaviridae as has been claimed in the
advertisement.
The response to claim virucidal activity of the
Coronaguard’s capability of decontaminating MS2
phage (Bacteriophage - a surrogate Virus) as a
surrogate virus instead of SARS CoV2 virus was not
acceptable.
The LEI testing laboratory in Mexico may be a
regulatory lab in Mexico But it is not an accredited
laboratory. Also, they have used the Equine arteritis
virus as surrogate virus instead of SARS Cov-2 virus.
The Aquadiagnostics Laboratory is not an accredited
laboratory. Although the certificate is enclosed it
does not show the lab no. Hence the scope of the
testing for which lab has been authorised could not be
verified.
The test data submitted shows that there is no killing
effect on bacteria and fungi. This was not acceptable
as safety data of the device.
Despite the concessions given by the Govt due to
Covid 19 Pandemic situation the fact remains that, no
data has been submitted for safety of animals and
humans.
Based on this assessment, the CCC concluded that
the claims, "Its Hypercharged canon fires trillions
(10-100 trillion electrons per second) of negatively
charged electrons", “Creating an electron cloud
across closed spaces", "The negatively charged
electrons neutralise the positively charged S-Proteins
on every virus particle", "It provides complete
coverage in every corner and on every surface", and
“Up to 99.9% viruses disabled on surfaces and in the
air, giving you real-time protection against infection
from coronaviruses in closed spaces", were
inadequately substantiated. The claims are
misleading by exaggeration and are likely to cause
grave and widespread disappointment in the minds of
the consumers. The Ad – Brochure contravened
Chapters I.1, I.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD.
CCC RECOMMENDATION ON REVIEW:
In respect to the claim that "Its Hypercharged canon
fires trillions (10- 100 trillion electrons per second)
of negatively charged electrons", “Creating an
electron cloud across closed spaces", "The negatively
charged electrons neutralise the positively charged S-
Proteins on every virus particle", "It provides
complete coverage in every corner and on every
surface", the CCC-R noted that no additional data has
been provided to substantiate this claim, hence this
particular complaint continues to be UPHELD.
For the claim “Up to 99.9% viruses disabled on
surfaces and in the air, giving you real-time
protection against infection from coronaviruses in
closed spaces", the advertiser submitted lab tests
reports from three different facilities. The virucidal
performance testing was done with Equine Arteritis
virus as a surrogate, as this virus is phylogenetically
similar from the same Nidovirales order and is as per
the EPA recommendations. Although viruses are
classified by closeness of physical, chemical and
biological characteristics according to their
hierarchical levels of order, family, subfamily, genus,
species and strains. The difference increases as they
go further beyond in the taxonomy from species,
genus, sub-family, family, sub-order, order, sub-
class, class, sub-phylum, phylum, sub-kingdom,
kingdom, sub-realm, realm etc. Therefore for all
practical purposes genus is taken as a standard unit.
Hence it is necessary to use members of the genus for
testing if one cannot do testing of the test virus for
any especially safety reasons. Therefore testing using
type species of the genus corona virus or other
Recommendations – December 2020
members which are safe to handle in bio-safety level
(BSL) II are used instead of Human corona virus
229E which require higher level (i.e. BSL III) for
safety concerns. Therefore test results of Order
Nidovirales, as a surrogate were not acceptable. The
CCC-R also considered the report on evaluation of
cell viability assay. The CCC-R noted that the data
provided for safety referred to a lab culture test of
human lung epithelial cells. This test was not
considered to be acceptable as it is not indicative of
toxicity.
Based on the above, the claim “Up to 99.9% viruses
disabled on surfaces and in the air, giving you real-
time protection against infection from coronaviruses
in closed spaces", was inadequately substantiated.
The claims are misleading and are likely to cause
grave and widespread disappointment in the minds of
the consumers. The Ad – Brochure contravened
Chapters I.1, I.4 and 1.5 of the ASCI Code. This
complaint was UPHELD on review.
2. 2012-CCC-R.11 (2010-C.1433) JYOTHY
LABORATORIES LTD – Maxo Genius
Liquid Vaporizer
NAME OF THE COMPLAINT: Godrej Consumer
Products Ltd
MEDIUM: Ad-Instagram Post
(https://www.instagram.com/p/CFBqZ1kBkew/?igshi
d=1k4qik9ni5a9t) and Product Packaging
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Complaint received against the Ad-Instagram Post
(https://www.instagram.com/p/CFBqZ1kBkew/?igshi
d=1k4qik9ni5a9t) and Product Packaging of “Jyothy
Laboratories Ltd - Maxo Genius Liquid Vaporizer”,
from Godrej Consumer Products Ltd.
We wish to draw your attention about the
advertisement given by the company named Jyothy
Labs (the Company) for promoting their product
“Maxo Genius” (the Product). In the said print
advertisement while promoting the said Product, they
have highlighted boldly that the said Product “fits in
all machines” with a disclaimer “does not work with
customized machines”. The copy of the
advertisement is enclosed for your ready reference.
The Preamble Chapter 1 (4) of the ASCI code states
that “Advertisement shall neither distort facts nor
mislead the consumers by means of implications or
omissions”. The Company is no doubt distorting the
facts and is misleading the consumers by making
them believe that Maxo Genius Liquid vaporizer will
fits in all machines with a disclaimer “does not work
with customized machines”.
On 17 October 2019, GCPL had launched a product
called Goodknight Gold Flash in South India and on
7 February 2020 across India (apart from South
India). Goodknight Gold Flash is a unique
technology, which ensures that only Goodknight
Gold Flash liquid vaporizer bottles fits into the
Goodnight flash machine and we would like state that
Good Knight Gold flash is only product sold by us in
the general market by us.
GCPL is the market leader in the liquid vaporizer
category and have more than 50% market share in the
same. Goodknight Gold Flash machine is unique, is
the most advanced machine, and only Good Knight
Gold Flash Vaporizer can fits into the machine.
We would also like to inform you that in April 2020
we had filed a complaint against S.C. Johnson
Products P. Ltd. For their product, “All Out Sattva”
which had the same claim “Fits in all leading /
famous machines”. The complaint no being 2002-
C.3519. ASCI had upheld the decision in our favour
stating that it was an absolute claim and was
contradictory to the disclaimer, which stated, “Fits in
all leading / famous machines.
In the same manner, the Company is mentioning,
“Fits all machines” with a disclaimer “does not work
with customized machines”, and we would like to
reiterate that the Maxo Genius Refill does not fit into
our Good Knight Gold Flash Machine. (Independent
laboratory report is attached for your ready reference)
Moreover ,the naïve consumers shall never
understand the self-contradicting disclaimer made by
the advertiser “does not work with customized
machines” as the Advertisers machine itself is a
customized machine sold under the brand name
Maxo Genius and they themselves has multiple
different customized machines . We would also like
to highlight the fact that all the leading companies
machines sold alongwith the liquid vaporizer
products in the market are actually customized
accordingly their product architect and hence the
disclaimer is vague & ambiguous hence claim as well
as disclaimer is misleading to the consumer. The
ASCI Code also says that the disclaimer should not
attempt to correct a misleading claim made in the
advertisement. Since the claim of being “Fits in all
Machines” is misleading for the above reasons, no
disclaimer may really be permitted to correct such
claim. Further, the Code, while permitting obvious
untruths with a view to amuse the consumers, does
not permit making of a literal and misleading claim
on the advertised product. Further, the use of the
expression “Fits in all machines” which are
unequivocal in such claims does not even leave any
ground for the Company to argue or qualify the
expression notwithstanding the fact that no such
Recommendations – December 2020
qualification or explanation is offered. This is for the
reason that the ASCI Code does not permit a
disclaimer to contradict the material claim or
contradict the main message, and does not permit the
change in absolute claims. Moreover, the disclaimers
not permitted for correcting misleading claim. While
GCPL’s Goodknight Gold flash machine only
accepts the Goodknight Gold Flash liquid vaporizer,
it is incorrect to advertise that Maxo Genius fits into
all machine. We are attaching an independent
laboratory report confirming that Goodknight Gold
flash machine only accepts the Goodknight Gold
Flash liquid vaporizer and Maxo genius liquid
vaporizer does not fit into the Goodknight Gold flash
machine.”
CCC RECOMMENDATION:
The ASCI had approached the advertiser for its
response in addressing the grievances of the
complainant and forwarded the details of the
complaint, verbatim, to the advertiser with a request
to respond to the same. The advertiser was offered an
opportunity to seek an Informal Resolution (IR) of
the complaint and a telecon with the ASCI Secretariat
to seek further guidance, which they did not avail but
replied requesting for an extension of one month’s
time to submit their detailed response. The deadlines
stipulated by Consumer Complaints Council (CCC)
procedure exist keeping in mind the immediate and
widespread impact that advertisements have on the
public. Consequently, any action which is needed to
be taken with respect to the same is required to be
prompt and urgent. It is for this purpose that the
deadlines, as stipulated, are set for
advertisers/broadcasters etc, and the CCC itself
makes it a priority to deal with every complaint
before it as expeditiously as possible. However, as a
special gesture, the advertiser was granted an
extension of additional three business days to
respond.
Advertiser in their response stated that “when
considering all similar categories of products
available in the market such as Maxo A Grade /
Genius, Mortein Intsa, Mortein Automatic, All Out
Slider, GoodKnight Neem Liquid Vaporizer,
GoodKnight Power Active Plus, it can be
significantly proved that their Product does fit into
the machines of all Other Products. It is pertinent to
note here that GCPL has ‘customized’ their mosquito
repellent machines ‘Goodknight Gold Flash’ to fit
only their Goodknight liquid vaporizers. This means
that none of the other branded Liquid vaporizer
bottles including Liquid Vaporizer bottles from
GCPL (other than Goodknight Gold Flash liquid
vaporizer bottles) fits into the Goodknight Gold flash
machine. It’s clear that the customization in their
disclaimer doesn’t refer to the aesthetic design or
functional customization but it refers specifically to
the fitment of the Maxo Genius Liquid Vaporizer into
various mosquito repellent machines available in the
market. Gold flash product from Godrej which is a
customised machine as per their own TVC.” As claim
support data, the advertiser provided - (1)
Representation of Maxo Genius Liquid Vaporizer
fitting into all the mosquito repellent machines of
other products, (2) Representation of various Liquid
Vaporizer with identical formulation available in the
market, (3) Copy of front and back of Maxo Genius
product, (4) YouTube link
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIfjZ53UNLw)
for the complainant’s advertisement
On the advertiser’s request, a meeting was arranged
with them by the ASCI Secretariat through Zoom
video conference.
The CCC viewed the Ad-Instagram Post
(https://www.instagram.com/p/CFBqZ1kBkew/?igshi
d=1k4qik9ni5a9t) and the Product Packaging, and
considered the advertiser’s response.
ASCI Secretariat apprised the CCC members present
that the advertiser during their meeting had shown a
demo of their product - `Maxo Genius Liquid
Vaporizer’ fitting in most of the mosquito repellent
machines, However, Maxo Genius Liquid Vaporizer
did not fit into the Goodknight Gold Flash machine
as this being a customised machine. During the
discussions, the advertiser informed that the Gold
flash product of the complainant is a customised
machine as per their own TVC. Advertiser also
confirmed that the market share of the customised
machine is less then 10%.
The CCC observed that the Complainant had
launched their product - Goodknight Gold Flash in
February 2020 across India. Their machine accepts
only their Gold Flash liquid vaporizer which is
specified for their own product and its use and not for
other machines. The advertiser is presenting their
product which has a feature to fit in all the mosquito
repellent machines other than the machines which are
expressly customized to prevent the fitting of all
types of liquid vaporizers.
The advertiser has also acknowledged that their
product does not fit in some customised machines.
The claim applies to the maximum size of the market
of similar products in the mosquito repellent
category, including the complainant’s old products.
The CCC noted that the claim and the placement
position of the disclaimer qualifying the claim is
stated upfront and appears on the same principal
panel of the advertisement / packaging. Also, the
disclaimer clearly clarifies the main claim.
Recommendations – December 2020
Based on these observations, by majority the CCC
concluded that the claim, “*Fits all machines” with a
disclaimer “*does not work with customised
machines” is not false or misleading. The Ad –
Instagram post and the product packaging is not in
contravention of Chapter I of the ASCI Code and
ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers made in supporting,
limiting or explaining claims made in advertisements.
This complaint was NOT UPHELD.
Complainant’s Submission for CCC-Review:
In regards to the CCC Recommendation against the
complaint 2010-C.1433, where the complaint was
upheld in the advertiser’s favour with the below
contentions:
a. GCPL has ‘customized’ their mosquito repellent
machines ‘Good knight Gold Flash’ to fit only their
Good knight liquid vaporizers. This means that none
of the other branded Liquid vaporizer bottles
including Liquid Vaporizer bottles from GCPL (other
than Goodknight Gold Flash liquid vaporizer bottles)
fits into the Goodknight Gold flash machine. It’s
clear that the customization in their disclaimer
doesn’t refer to the aesthetic design or functional
customization but it refers specifically to the fitment
of the Maxo Genius Liquid Vaporizer into various
mosquito repellent machines available in the market.
Gold flash product from Godrej which is a
customized machine as per their own TVC.”
b. It is accepted by the Advertiser that their product
doesn’t fit into Goodknight Gold Flash Machines.
c. Advertiser has provided the data which states that
the market share of the customized machine
(Goodknight Gold Flash) is less than 10%.
Reason for Review:
The advertiser is using the expression “Fits all
Machines” with a disclaimer “does not fit in
customized machines” on their product as well in
their communication while promoting their Maxo
Liquid Vaporiser. We would like to reiterate the fact
the GoodKnight Gold Flash is a market leader in the
Liquid Vaporiser category. The only reason every
competitor wants to have such claim that their liquid
vaporizer bottles fits in all machine is that they wants
to promote that their liquid vaporizer bottles fits into
all the leading liquid vaporizer machines which are
already present in the majority of the households.
However the unique feature of the Goodknight Gold
Flash Machine is that it can only take Goodknight
Gold Flash refill liquid bottles and hence we filed a
complaint specifically challenging the claim that
Maxo liquid vaporizer fits in all the machines which
apparently has less than 10% market share.
We would also like to bring to your attention that
how consumers will believe and understand the
disclaimer which are self-contradicting to the main
claim and which contravenes ASCI’s guidelines on
disclaimer specifically 3rd disclaimer i.e. “A
disclaimer should not attempt to correct a misleading
claim made in an advertisement”.
Market Share:
In regards to the market share, we would like to
mention that
a. Goodknight is the market leader and has 58 %
share in the liquid vaporizer (refill) category.
b. In the LMD (Liquid Machine Destroyer) GCPL is
market leader in LMD market with Gold Flash SKU
at 47.9% (almost 48%) at All India level. Below data
by Nielsen upto the October 2020.
From the above, it is clear that Goodknight is the
market leader with almost 58% market share in the
standalone liquid vaporizer refill and almost 48% of
the market share in the LMD category and you will
observe that the LMD (in our case Good Knight Gold
Flash) market share is growing by leaps and bounds
with each passing month.
We are shocked to read in the decision, which is
based on the data submitted by the Advertiser stating
that customized machine, which can be interpreted as
Goodknight Gold flash machine has only 10% market
share. We wish to clarify and place it on record that
when we filed the original complaint at that time also
our Goodknight Gold Flash market share was more
than 40% and as of October 2020 has become almost
48% of the total LMD sold in the market. Hence, we
are shocked how CCC without verifying this crucial
piece of data, relied & concluded that the claim Fits
all machines does not contravene ASCI’s Chapter 1
& 4. Moreover ASCI’s CCC panel also has not found
the disclaimer objectionable even though it’s an
incorrect impression of the fact the Maxo liquid
vaporizer bottles does not fit in the majority of
machines sold in the market.
We firmly believe that the Advertisers claim “Fits in
All Machines “is an absolute claim; even a relative
claim such as Fits in almost all the machines” cannot
pass the test of fitment in all the machine as
practically the Maxo refills does not fit in the 48%
machines which are sold in the market. Therefore, the
disclaimer “Does not fit into the customized
machines" is contrasting to the claim and should not
be allowed as it creates confusion, brings ambiguity
and gives an impression to the consumers that Maxo
liquid vaporizer fits in all the machines including
Good knight Gold Flash machines.
ASCI Code Contravention:
Recommendations – December 2020
The advertiser while promoting the Product i.e.
“Maxo Genius” is in contravention of Chapter-1.1,
1.4 & 4 of the ASCI code, as there is no honest &
truthful representation. In fact, expression “Fits all
Machines” with a disclaimer “does not fit in
customized machines” is very confusing, vague and
contravenes the guidelines on the Disclaimer.
To conclude, the use of the expression “Fits in all
machines” with a disclaimer “does not fit in
customized machines” is in contravention of the
ASCI disclaimers code 1, 2 & 3.
ASCI Disclaimer Guidelines:
1. A disclaimer can expand or clarify a claim, make
qualifications or resolve ambiguities to explain the
claim in further detail, but should not contradict the
material claim made or contradict the main message
conveyed by the advertiser or change the dictionary
meaning of the words used in the claims received or
perceived by a consumer.
For Example:
If the claim is to offer a product or service for “free”
then the disclaimer cannot contradict the claim by
seeking some payment for product or service.
2. A disclaimer should not attempt to hide material
information, with respect to the claim, the
omission/absence of which is likely to make the
advertisement deceptive or conceal its commercial
intent.
3. A disclaimer should no attempt to correct a
misleading claim made in an advertisement
1. The disclaimer “does not fit in customized
machines” is contradicting the material claim and it
example also is correlating such as Fits all machines
but does not fit in customized machines, which is like
50% market share in LMD category. The disclaimer
is hiding the material information, which is deceptive
and misguiding the naïve consumers who may just
buy seeing the statement “Fits all machines” whereas
it may not in the machines available at their home
coz of the disclaimer “does not fit in customized
machines” . It is also correcting the misleading claim,
when the advertisers product does not even fit into
the approx. 50% machines sold in the market.
CCC RECOMMENDATION ON REVIEW:
Both the advertiser and the complainant presented
their points of view to the CCCR panel.
The complainant stated that “We firmly believe that
the Advertisers claim “Fits in All Machines “is an
absolute claim; even a relative claim such as Fits in
almost all the machines” cannot pass the test of
fitment in all the machine as practically the Maxo
refills does not fit in the 48% machines which are
sold in the market. Therefore, the disclaimer “Does
not fit into the customized machines" is contrasting to
the claim and should not be allowed as it creates
confusion, brings ambiguity and gives an impression
to the consumers that Maxo liquid vaporizer fits in all
the machines including Good Knight Gold Flash
machines.”
The complainant sought a review based on market
share data that was presented to the CCC. The CCC
observed that market share data provided by the
complainant showed the exit market value share of
Good Knight Gold Flash as 47.9%. While volume
share was not available with the complainant, they
mentioned that they had sold over 3 crore machines
since this product was launched in October 2019.
They therefore argued, that Good Knight Gold Flash
were the undisputed market leaders for liquid
vapourizer machines. On this basis, the complainant
contested the CCC’s earlier decision “*Fits all
machines” with a disclaimer “*does not work with
customised machines” is not false or misleading” as
the Maxo product does not fit a large number of
machines being sold. The complainant also argued
that the claim contravened ASCI’s Disclaimer
Guidelines, and that the disclaimer guidelines were
not considered by the CCC in its decision.
The CCCR panel wanted to verify if the complainant
had any data on number of machines in households,
or the average length of time a machine is used for in
a household. The complainant responded that the
average life of machines is two years and this is
stated on all their packaging. However, they were
unable to provide data to suggest number of
machines currently in use across households. The
CCC wished to understand the same as the machine
can be used over multiple months, and is not strictly a
single use product.
The CCCR panel turned to the advertiser’s
arguments. The CCCR panel wished to understand if
there was any data to show presence of machines in a
household, rather than only current volume or value
share as that would pertain only to new machines.
This data would provide a more accurate picture on
the availability of existing machines in the
households, as the CCCR panel was dealing with a
quasi-durable product. Hence the life of such a
product was important to take into consideration.
The advertiser was able to provide 2 sets of data to
the CCCR panel. One was the Nielsen data report for
average market (volume) share of Good Knight Gold
Flash for a two year period, which was observed to
be at 8.3%. This was based on the total number of
Good Knight Gold Flash liquid vaporiser combi pack
bought vs. the total number of combi packs sold in
the category in the last two years. The advertiser
through this calculation tried to establish the tota
number of Good Knight Gold Flash machines as a
Recommendations – December 2020
percentage of functioning machines in the market.
The rationale for noting this market share was that
the average life of the product was declared as two
years as an industry practice, including the
complainant’s product packaging. This would help to
provide a better idea of the availability of machines
across different households. The advertiser was also
able to provide household panel data by KANTAR
which showed average category penetration at 10%
and the share of Good Knight Gold Flash as being
4.1% of the households using the category. This data
was considered important by the CCCR panel in
assessing the actual usage of liquid vaporiser
machines rather than just the current market share.
The CCCR panel noted that the exit market share of
Good Knight Gold Flash was dominant on the basis
of new machines being added to the market. But if
one considered the current number of machines being
used or being present in households, the
complainant’s product was still small at 4.1%. The
CCC R panel observed that this situation may change
in the coming few months. The CCCR panel noted
the advertiser’s contention that since April, 2012, no
new claim was introduced on the pack.
The original CCC decision was on the basis of
Godrej Gold Flash market share being less than 10%
when taken for the relevant period ( 2 years as the life
of the product). The data provided by the
complainant and the advertiser did not contradict this
basis. Further, it was also established that the
household usage of Godrej Gold Flash was 4.1% of
the current machines being used. Hence it was likely
that a Maxo product purchased would work on all
machines other than customised ones. The CCCR
panel noted the earlier observations of the CCC that
the disclaimer was made prominently next to the
claim on the principle display panel. On this basis,
the CCCR panel by majority decided that the claim in
its current form does not contravene the ASCI code.
The decision of the CCC remained unaltered. This
complaint was NOT UPHELD. On the
complainant’s arguments on claim contravening
ASCI’s Disclaimer Guidelines, the CCCR panel
noted, that no additional data was provided in this
matter for the review panel to consider. Hence, this
claim too was NOT UPHELD and there was no
change to the CCC decision upon review by the
CCCR panel.
1. 2011-FTCP.22 DABUR INDIA
LIMITED(*) – Dabur Red Paste
NAME OF THE COMPLAINANT: Colgate-
Palmolive India Limited(*)
MEDIUM: YouTube(*)
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oXMi4OccTo )
and TV Commercial
ADVERTISING AGENCY: Ogilvy(*)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Fast Track Complaint received against the YouTube
advertisement
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oXMi4OccTo )
and TV Commercial of “Dabur India Ltd – Dabur
Red Paste” which appeared on Colors TV dated 16th
November 2020, from Colgate-Palmolive India
Limited.
We are presenting this Fast Track Complaint against
the aforesaid misleading Advertisement which is
being aired on Televisions channels as well as on
Youtube in multiple language formats. A storyboard
of the Advertisement is enclosed for your ready
reference as Annexure – 1. Below is a summary of
the 2 (two) key objections to this misleading
Advertisement.
OBJECTION 1 : The claim “Aur ab Dabur Red
paste, prabhavshali hai 99% virus marne ke liye bhi”,
which translates into English as “And Now Dabur
Red paste is 99% effective in killing the virus”, is not
clear as to which specific virus the product is
effective against. Further, by using imagery
associated with COVID-19 (as shown below), the
Advertiser is suggesting that the product is effective
in killing the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-
19. ASCI CODE PROVISION VIOLATED- chapter
1 – “Truthful and Honest Representation” (1.1, 1.4 &
1.5 ) and the latest Advisory on misleading
advertisements in view of the pandemic situation
dated 19th October, 2020 (“ASCI’s Latest
Advisory”). GROUNDS FOR CHALLENGE 1)
ASCI’s Latest Advisory Paragraph 2 requires that
advertisers be specific when making any reference to
the virus that causes COVID-19. Here, the Advertiser
does not specify the particular virus that Dabur Red
Toothpaste is 99% effective in killing. Instead, the
Recommendations – December 2020
Advertiser refers vaguely to “the virus” and uses an
image associated with COVID-19. By failing to
specify the particular virus and suggesting through
imagery that the unnamed virus is SARS-CoV-2, the
Advertiser is trying to mislead people to believe that
Dabur Red Toothpaste is 99% effective against the
SARS-CoV-2 virus. Accordingly, the Advertiser
should be asked to identify the specific virus to which
they are referring. And, if the Advertiser is not
referring to SARS-CoV-2, all references to the word
virus (and the COVID-19 imagery) should be
eliminated or it should be made clear that the
referenced virus is not SARS-CoV-2, in accordance
with ASCI’s Latest Advisory Paragraph 2. 2) ASCI’s
Latest Advisory Paragraph 3 requires that the claims
made by the Advertiser be substantiated by
recognized technical support, medical/technical
literature, or regulatory- approved clinical research.
Accordingly, the Advertiser should be asked to
identify and explain the support that exists for their
claim that Dabur Red toothpaste is 99% effective in
killing “the virus”. OBJECTION 2 : The claim
“Aapke parivar ko de suraksha”, which translates into
English as “Gives Protection to your Family”, as used
by the Advertiser in combination with the generic
“virus” claim and COVID-19 imagery referenced in
Objection 1, falsely gives the impression that Dabur
Red toothpaste provides protection from the SARS-
CoV-2 virus.
ASCI CODE PROVISION VIOLATED- chapter 1 –
“Truthful and Honest Representation” (1.1, 1.4 & 1.5
) and ASCI’s Latest Advisory. GROUNDS FOR
CHALLENGE : 1) As stated earlier, ASCI’s Latest
Advisory Paragraph 3 requires that the claims made
by the Advertiser be substantiated by recognized
technical support, medical/technical literature, or
regulatory-approved clinical research. Accordingly,
the Advertiser should be asked to identify and
explain the support that exists for its claim that Dabur
Red toothpaste “gives protection to your family”
from “the virus”.”
FTCC RECOMMENDATION:
The Fast Track Complaints (FTC) Panel viewed the
advertisement and heard the Complainant and the
Advertiser. The FTC Panel noted the two objections
against the claims “Aur ab Dabur Red paste,
prabhavshali hai 99% virus marne mein bhi” and
“Aapke parivar ko de suraksha”. The complainant
argued that in the absence of any clarification,
consumers would assume that Dabur Red Toothpaste
is effective against the COVID-19 virus and that this
contravenes the ASCI COVID advisory, unless the
advertiser had the evidence to prove its effectiveness
against the COVID -19 virus.
The Complainant also argued that the line “Aapke
parivar ko de suraksha”, when seen along with the
image and “Aur ab Dabur Red paste, prabhavshali hai
99% virus marne meinbhi” would give the
impression to the consumers that this toothpaste
provided protection to the family against the COVID
-19 virus.
The Advertiser responded by saying that their
toothpaste has been tested against the COVID-19
virus in the Institute for Antiviral Research in Utah,
USA. The FTC Panel noted the expert’s view that
this test appeared to have been done for research
purposes. The FTC Panel also noted that the test
documents provided were on a letter head of ‘Dabur
Research Foundation’ for their internal use.
Therefore the FTC Panel considered this report
inadequate as substantiation for making the above
claims. Its acceptance for a product claim was
inadequate as the protocol followed did not appear to
be a standard one for product claims. The FTC Panel
also noted that no other test report against any other
virus was provided.
Hence the complaint “Aur ab Dabur Red paste,
prabhavshali hai 99% virus marne mein bhi” was
considered misleading by omission and ambiguity
and contravened Chapters I.1, I.4 and I.5 of the ASCI
Code. The FTC Panel noted that the advertisement
also contravened the ASCI COVID advisory. The
complaint was UPHELD.
On the second objection against the claim, “Aapke
parivar ko de suraksha”, the FTC Panel noted that
this claim appeared on the last frame along with a
voice-over “Aur ab Dabur Red paste, prabhavshali
hai 99% virus marne mein bhi”, and a visual
depiction that reiterates “maare 99% virus*, proven
effective”. Hence, the two claims were considered
interlinked. In light of “Aur ab Dabur Red paste,
prabhavshali hai 99% virus marne mein bhi” claim
being upheld, the claim “Aapke parivar ko de
suraksha^” was also considered to be misleading by
implication and contravened Chapter I.4 of the ASCI
Code. This complaint was UPHELD.
2. 2012-FTCP.23 Dabur India Limited(*) –
Dabur Honey
NAME OF THE COMPLAINANT: Marico
Limited (*)
MEDIUM: Hindustan Times(*) dated 03-12-2020)
Ad-Instagram
ADVERTISING AGENCY: Havas Worldwide
India Pvt Ltd
Recommendations – December 2020
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
Fast Track Complaint received against the print
advertisement (appeared in Hindustan Times dated
03-12-2020) and Ad-Instagram post of “Dabur India
Ltd – Dabur Honey”, from Marico Limited
CSE PRESS CONFERENCE AND FOOD FRAUD
REPORT On December 2, 2020, Centre for Science
and Environment (“CSE”), a public interest research
and advocacy; knowledge dissemination and capacity
building, organization working in the field of air,
water, habitat, industry based, climates, foods and
toxins research and publication based in New Delhi,
held a live press conference presenting its’
investigation into the mother of all food frauds, w.r.t
adulteration of Indian Honey with sugar syrups. CSE
has also been awarded with various awards such as
Edinburgh Medal 2020, Indira Gandhi Prize for
Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2018. Post
the press conference, CSE published a report titled as
“Food Fraud” about the rampant adulteration in
Honey in the Indian Market (Refer Annex C). CSE
investigated the source of adulteration and also tested
13 prominent brands of Honey that were being sold
in India. These samples were tested for C3/C4 sugars
as well as foreign oligosaccharides including SMR,
and TMR for unauthorized addition of rice syrups.
The samples were tested as per the FSSAI mandated
standards tests as well as the Nuclear Magnetic
Resonance Test (“NMR”). Some of the key findings
of the CSE report were
· 77 per cent of the samples were found to be
adulterated with addition of sugar syrup.
· Out of 22 samples tested, only five passed all the
tests
· Honey samples from leading brands such as Dabur,
Patanjali, Baidyanath, Zandu, Hitkari and Apis
Himalaya, all failed the NMR test.
· Only 3 out of the 13 brands – Saffola, Markfed
Sohna and Nature’s Nectar (one out of two samples) -
- passed all the tests. On December 2, 2020 Dabur
immediately, in a knee-jerk reaction, came up with a
clarificatory advertisement and openly negated the
reports calling them as “motivated”. In order to
cover-up the report Dabur in a haste started calling
itself as “Dabur Honeyhas passed German NMR test”
which is blatantly false. 4.1. CLAIM
CHALLENGED:-“Dabur Honey has passed the
German NMR Test”. KEY OBJECTIONS The claim
of “Dabur Honey has passed the German NMR Test”
is false and misleading as has also been
recommended by ASCI vide its recommendation
dated October 15, 2020. ASCI CODE VIOLATED:-
Chapter I as the ASCI Code. GROUNDS FOR
CHALLENGE 4.1.1. Adulteration in Honey is done
in various forms, one of them being addition of sugar
syrups to Raw Honey, during the stages of
manufacturing/refining/bottling before selling the
finished good to the consumers. A flow chart
explaining the stages at which adulteration takes
place in Honey is set forth below: 4.1.2. Dabur has
once again started claiming that its product clears
NMR test. This is the same claim that it was unable
to substantiate in the FTCP complaint dated October
01, 2020 and also chose not to file any review against
the said recommendation. 4.1.3. Dabur in the garb of
claiming its Honey as “Source tested”is misleading
the consumer into believing that the final product is
NMR tested and passed. It is worth mentioning that
the FTCP had already, earlier rejected the contention
of Dabur that testing of Raw Honey,which it is
calling as the source honey, does not guarantee that
the finished product has not been adulterated before
selling to the consumers. On this ground alone the
claim of Dabur should be rejected/restricted. 4.1.4.
Marico has once again independently tested 12
batches of Dabur Honey through Intertek Group Plc.
‘Intertek’ is a world-renowned assurance, testing,
inspection and certification agency, headquartered in
Germany. All such batches have continued to fail the
NMR tests (Refer AnnexureD1- to Annexure D12),
as was the case in the FTCP complaint dated
1stOctober, 2020. The result of the said test reports
are reproduced herein below:-
4.1.5. Marico has taken due care to ensure that each
bottle of Dabur Honey sent to the Intertek for testing
is sent intact in its original packaging. 4.2. CLAIM
CHALLENGED- “100% Pure” 4.2.1. KEY
OBJECTIONS The claim of “100% Pure” is false
and misleading. The standard of honey clearly
provides that Honey shall be the natural sweet
substance produced by Honeybees.(Refer Reg 2.8.3
of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products
Standards and Food Additives) Regulations
2011).Therefore, nothing can be added to Honey
since its’ a natural substance and presence of any
additive or adulterant is neither permitted nor can be
called as a pure Honey. The NMR test of Dabur
Honey clearly establishes/presence of sugar syrups
which is not naturally present in it.
4.2.2. ASCI CODE VIOLATED:- Chapter I as the
ASCI Code. 4.2.3. GROUNDS FOR CHALLENGE
a. The FSS Act, 2006 prescribes for objective
standards for Honey in Section 2.8.3 of the Food
Recommendations – December 2020
Safety and Standard (Food Products Standards and
Food Additives) Regulation 2011. The standards
clearly state that honey has to be a natural sweet
substance produced by Honeybees, and that no food
ingredient, including food additives nor shall any
other addition be made other than Honey. An
addition/presence of sugar syrups, thus leads to
Honey not being in its natural form and therefore is
impure. b. The CSE report also clearly states that
sugar syrups that are capable of bypassing the tests
mandated by FSSAI are widely available in the
market. c. Considering the NMR test results from
Marico as well as an independent third party such as
the CSE, it should be noted that the possibility of
Dabur using a sugar syrup capable of bypassing the
FSSAI test cannot be ruled out and Dabur should be
subjected to strict proof to prove the contrary. d.
Once it has been decided by ASCI that Dabur’s NMR
claim is false and misleading, a claim of 100% purity
loses all credibility. Furthermore, if the end product
is found to be adulterated, as has been conclusively
proved by the attached reports, it would be absolutely
misleading to claim 100% purity. e. The FSS
(Advertising and Claims) Regulations 2018 permits
the use of “Pure” only to define a product which is a
single ingredient product to which nothing has been
added. It is also worth mentioning, that the NMR
reports substantiate the addition of sugar syrups,
hence Dabur Honey cannot be termed as 100% Pure.
”
FTCC RECOMMENDATION:
The Fast Track Complaints Panel (FTCP), through a
personal hearing, heard the arguments for both the
complainant and the advertiser. The expert, Prof.
Smita Lele, who reviewed all the technical evidence
provided to the FTCP was also present during the
deliberations.
The complainant objected to 2 key claims in the
advertisement for Dabur Honey:
a. Dabur Honey has passed the German NMR Test
b. Is NMR Source tested
CLAIM 1: NMR test related
a. Dabur Honey has passed the German NMR Test
b. Is NMR Source tested
The FTCP noted that the claim “Dabur Honey has
passed the German NMR test” was in contravention
of the ASCI ruling, “‘NMR Tested’ is considered
false and misleading by implication and omission and
UPHELD under Chapter 1.4”, dated14.10.2020.
ASCI noted that the advertiser had confirmed that the
said claim was now withdrawn and that it was placed
inadvertently. Given that this was a new campaign,
the FTCP would strongly urge the advertiser to
ensure that such a claim is not repeated if it cannot be
substantiated, as it amounts to misleading the
consumers.
The FTCP then took note of the claim “IS NMR
SOURCE TESTED”. The advertiser asserted that all
its raw material is tested on its own NMR machine
and also provided several tests of the raw material it
procures, which were all shown as clearing the NMR
test. The advertiser, in their arguments said while that
they believed strongly in the NMR testing technique,
and that it would perhaps be more widely used in the
future. However, the NMR database was inadequate
at this time to use as product or claim support for the
finished product in India, as the database had < 1.5 %
Indian honey representation. When asked if this was
statistically significant in terms of absolute numbers,
the advertiser contended that Bruker, who is the
NMR machine and test developer, had not provided
them with enough data to clearly establish how
representative their sampling was.
The FTCP then asked the advertiser why they had
been using NMR related claims in their
advertisements in the past and even now, if they
believe this technique does not adequately support
claims related to Indian honey. To this, the advertiser
responded that this was done to address competitive
claims. The FTCP noted that the advertiser’s stance
on NMR testing was inconsistent with its usage in
their advertising claims. The FTCP expressed
concern that this was being used in advertisements in
spite of the advertiser’s own admission that they
considered it premature for claim testing. The FTCP
did not consider competitive provocation as a valid
reason to put a specific test result in the
advertisement, when the advertiser themselves had
doubts over the data. The FTCP was of the opinion
that this amounted to selectively using the test
depending on the needs of the advertiser.
The FTCP noted that the advertiser was using “NMR
source tested” in an advertisement, which is for the
final finished product, and targeted at end consumers.
The end consumers could not be burdened with the
onus of knowing the process of honey filtration or
packaging, or that “source tested” is different from
the final product being NMR tested and compliant.
The consumer is not expected to be familiar with the
process of honey production, filtering and packaging
and the average consumer’s concern is with the
finished product, which is being advertised.
Therefore, the FTCP believed that such a claim could
mislead consumers into thinking that the final
product, of which the advertisement is, is also NMR
tested and compliant. Thus, the FTCP decided that
this complaint should be UPHELD as the claim
Recommendations – December 2020
“NMR source tested” has been framed in a manner
that exploits the lack of experience and knowledge of
the consumer, and could take undue advantage of
consumer trust. This claim contravened chapter 1.5 of
the ASCI code.
CLAIM 2:- 100% PURE
Based on the expert opinion, the FTCP noted a
discrepancy between the test reports of the final
product shared by complainant, and the NMR source
testing reports shared by the advertiser. The FTCP
observed there were two non-complying parameters,
namely, serial numbers 7 and 10 (c3,c4 sugar syrup
addition allegation by complainant) in the product
analysis report of the advertisers product, submitted
by the complainant, vs. raw honey NMR reports
submitted by Advertiser. The FTCP deliberated that a
simple blending of different raw honey
consignments, cannot lead to such results irrespective
of blending proportions and hence it may be inferred
that some alteration in honey composition is
indicated during processing, filling, and packing.
The FTCP noted the advertiser’s test report showed
that it cleared all FSSAI standards prescribed for
honey. However, in the advertisement where the
claim of 100% Pure is made, several reasons,
including NMR testing have been provided as
support. As deliberated before, the claim of “NMR
tested” and “NMR source tested’ are misleading
under Chapter 1.4, hence the claim 100% PURE read
in conjunction with “NMR source testing” which is
mentioned as one of the basis of the 100% PURE
claim is also misleading by omission and implication.
Given the recent events, NMR testing is widely
reported in the media as a new testing methodology,
hence consumers would start to build some
familiarity and acceptance of this technique. The
FTCP concluded that source honey testing by NMR
does not automatically reflect the 100% purity claim
on the ultimate marketed product and thus is
misinforming the consumer. In this context, the claim
100% PURE in this advertisement, was considered to
be in contravention of the ASCI code 1.1, 1.4 as it
could mislead the consumers by way of implication
or omission. This complaint was UPHELD.
3. 2012-FTC.24 Marico Limited (*) – Saffola
Honey
NAME OF THE COMPLAINANT: Dabur India
Limited (*)
NATURE OF THE COMPLAINT:
We have received a Fast Track
complaint against the above referred
print advertisement (published in Times
of India Delhi NCR
edition dated
6th December
2020), Facebook
advertisement(https://www.facebook.co
m/saffolahoneyindia/photos/a.19216846
9227602/192167915894324/?type=
3&theater) and Instagram advertisement
(https://www.instagram.com/p/CIcBz2
QJRo-/ ) of “Marico Ltd – Saffola
Honey”, from Dabur India Limited.
CLAIMS CHALLENGED
NMR Tested – Every Batch of packed
Saffola Honey passes stringent tests
including NMR Test to ensure that it is
100% Pure.
a) Key Objections:
This claim by Marico that “Every
Batch” of Saffola Honey is “NMR
Tested” and “Passed” to ensure that it is
“100% Pure” is completely false and
misleading. Batch Nos. A01, K10, K14,
K16 of Saffola Honey were tested for
NMR through BRUKER’S (the sole
entity manufacturing NMR equipment),
Saffola Honey FAILED in the test and
Sugar Syrups and severely increased
content of Ethanol, were deducted.
Further, QSI (independent German Lab)
in its reports has evaluated Saffola
Honey as “untypical for table honey”
and “adulterated”.
b) ASCI code violated: Chapter I
c) Grounds for challenge:
4.1.1 Marico had published a print ad
and posted the Advertisement on its
Facebook and Instagram Accounts for
Saffola Honey on 05.12.2020
advertising for sale its Saffola Honey
with a claim that “Every Batch” of
Saffola Honey is “NMR Tested” and
“Passed” to ensure that it is “100%
Recommendations – December 2020
Pure”.
4.1.2 The claim made by Marico, which
they have been advertising for some
time now, is false and misleading to
their knowledge and it is designed to
confuse and mislead consumers to
believe “Every Batch” of Saffola Honey
is NMR Compliant and it is found to be
100% Pure and without any adulterant.
4.1.3 Dabur has got independently tested
Batch Nos. A01, K10, K14, K16 of
Saffola Honey through BRUKER’S
(sole manufacturer of NMR equipment)
– Reports attached. The Reports give
the unequivocal finding that: “Detection
of Sugar Syrups: YES” (Page 1 of the
report)
“Result: There are indications for the
presence of Sugar Syrups” (Page 3 and 4 of
the report)
4.1.4 The Bruker’s reports further show
that Saffola Honey has severely
increased content of Ethanol1, which
indicates Fermentation. As ideally, table
honey should not ferment, these
samples of Saffola Honey were
classified as “BAKER’S/
INDUSTRIAL HONEY” by Intertek
(an independent German Lab) in its
analysis report- Reports attached.
4.1.5 Though above-referred Intertek’s
analysis reports for Saffola Honey
interpreted the NMR profile for the
samples of Saffola Honey as
“UNTYPICAL”2 and classified them as
“BAKER’S/ INDUSTRIAL HONEY”
but in the section “Indications for
Adulteration” the result shown as
“NO”, which was surprising.
4.1.6 As Intertek’s interpretation of
Bruker’s report was confusing to the
extent that it showed Indications for
Adulteration as ‘No’, while Bruker’s
report clearly detected the presence of
Sugar Syrups in the samples of Saffola
Honey. In order to clarify the confusion,
Dabur obtained interpretation reports
from another well reputed and an
independent German Lab – QSI. QSI
has also interpreted the Bruker’s report
and in its reports has evaluated Saffola
Honey as “untypical for table honey”
and “adulterated”. QSI’s interpretation
reports are attached. 4.1.7 Therefore, it
is evident that this claim by Marico that
“Every Batch” of Saffola Honey is
“NMR Tested” and “Passed” to ensure
that it is “100% Pure”, is false and
misleading to the knowledge of Marico
and is violative of Chapter I of the
ASCI Code.
4.1.8 The bottles of Saffola Honey sent
by Dabur for testing were sent in
original manufacturer’s packaging with
original with manufacturer’s seal intact,
as recorded in the Test Reports.
4.2 “100% Pure”
a) Key Objections:
This claim by Marico of “100% Pure”
for its Saffola Honey, which is being
advertised for some time now, is also
false and misleading, to their
knowledge as assuming Marico had
tested each Batch of Saffola Honey, it
would got the NMR
results/interpretation, showing presence
of sugar syrup, in addition to Saffola
Honey failing on other parameters (as
detailed below). Consequently, Marico
could not claim Saffola Honey to be
“100% Pure”. Presence of Sugar Syrups
and severely increased content of
Ethanol in Saffola Honey in Batch Nos.
A01, K10, K14, K16 clearly
demonstrates the falsity of these claims.
Further as set out below, several
batches of Saffola Honey failed on
critical parameters for authentic honey
including the parameters prescribed by
FSSAI which makes Saffola Honey
NOT PURE and NOT FREE FROM
ADULTERATION.
b) ASCI code violated: Chapter I
Recommendations – December 2020
c) Grounds for challenge:
4.2.1 FSSAI has by its direction dated
01.07.2020 has mandated compliance of
the Food Safety and Standards (Food
Products Standards and Food Additives)
Amendment Regulations, 2020 w.r.t.
standards for honey in India (in short
“FSSAI Amendment Regulations,
2020”).
4.2.2 Sub-regulation 2.8.3 of FSSAI
Amendment Regulations, 2020
defines Honey as:
“Honey is the natural sweet substance
produced by honey bees from the nectar
of plants or from secretions of living
parts of plants or excretions of plant
sucking insects on the living parts of
plants, which the bees collect, transform
by combining with specific substances
of their own, deposit, dehydrate, store
and leave in the honeycomb to ripen
and mature.
a) Blossom Honey or Nectar Honey is the
honey which comes from nectars of
plants.
b) Honeydew Honey is the honey which
comes mainly from excretions of plant
sucking insects (Hemiptera) on the
living parts of plants or secretions of
living parts of plants.”
4.2.3 This definition of honey leaves no
doubt that Honey should not contain
any other ingredient including any food
additive.
4.2.4 Further, item (V) (in a form of a table)
of sub-regulation 2.8.3 of the FSSAI
Amendment Regulations, 2020, also
prescribes certain parameters / limits/
tests which are standards w.r.t. honey in
India and if honey (including Saffola
Honey) fails any of the parameters /
limits/ tests prescribed, such honey
cannot be said to be “100% Pure”
i.e. Free from any Adulteration.
4.2.5 As explained in Section 4.1 above,
Saffola Honey is found to be adulterated
with Sugar Syrups – which are not
naturally present in honey and has been
classified as Baker’s/ Industrial Honey
having severely increased content of
Ethanol – which indicates Fermentation
and an “untypical” NMR Profile; thus
making the claim of Marico that Saffola
Honey is “100% Pure” false and
misleading and violative of Chapter I of
ASCI Code.
4.2.6 Further, Intertek’s/ QSI’s analysis
reports for Saffola Honey Batch Nos.
K05, K06, K07, K09, K10, K14, K16,
A01 clearly show that Saffola Honey
has failed in several critical parameters
for authentic honey like Ethanol
content, Aliphatic Hydrocarbons;
including the parameters prescribed by
FSSAI with respect to Standards of
Honey in India like Hydroxymethyl
Furfural (HMF) content, Water-
insoluble content, etc. For ease of
reference, a chart is given below setting
out details of the parameters which
different batches of Saffola Honey have
failed:
4.2.7 The fact that Saffola Honey does not
comply with the parameters/ standards
for authentic honey including the
parameters prescribed under FSSAI
Amendment Regulations, 2020,
falsifies/negates its claims of “100%
Pure” and makes such claims false and
misleading, consequently violative of
Chapter I of ASCI Code.
4.2.8 The Food Safety and Standards
(Advertising and Claims) Regulations,
2018 were mandated providing for
regulations pertaining to claims and
advertisements, to avoid misleading
claims by marketers. Item No. 3 of
Schedule V of the referenced
Regulations prescribes that the term
Recommendations – December 2020
“Pure” can only be used to describe a
single ingredient food to which nothing
has been added and which is free from
avoidable contamination. Saffola Honey
being found to be added with Sugar
Syrup and adulterated, Marico cannot
be permitted to claim “100% Pure” for
Saffola Honey
For the convenience & easy
understanding of these technical terms,
we are submitting below with
appropriate references.
1) NMR profile :
• Typical : System declare a
Honey in to typical ( as defined by the
Annex I and II EU honey Directive
2001/110 and based on the current
Honey-ProfilingTM database of Bruker
BioSpin GmbH and our expert
interpretation) if no deviations in the
parameters and the entire NMR profile (
Fingerprint of the honey) can be
observed.
• Untypical : An untypical
honey according to the Annex I and II
EU honey Directive 2001/110 shows
indications of adulteration in the NMR
profile mainly in the sugar area or also
in deviating quality parameters.
2) Ethanol Content: Concentration of
ethanol exceeding 400 mg / kg indicates
fermentation.
Reference: Reports reference of
QSI & Intertek Lab, Germany ,
Annexure – 1 & 4
3) Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) : HMF
is an Indication of honey quality & is
used as a marker for degradation by
excessive heating/aging.
• FSSAI Specs : Standards for
Honey , HMF - 80 mg/kg, max.
Reference : Annexure No. 17
• EU Specs : Council
Directive 2001/110/EC relating to
honey, dated Dec. 20th, 2001; Article 1
in connection with Annex II.” , the limit
of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural are 40
mg/kg OR 80 mg/kg for honey from
tropical regions. Reference: Annexure
No. 18
• Codex
Alimentarius
commission:
Codex
standard for
Honey,
CODEX
STAN 12-
19811
Reference:
Annexure No.
19
4) Bakers / Industrial Honey : Is honey
that does not meet fully all the criteria
for table honey & is suitable for
industrial uses or as an ingredient in
other foodstuffs which are then
processed and may…….
Have a foreign taste or
odour, or Have begun to
ferment or have
fermented, or Have been
overheated Reference: a) Council Directive 2001/110/EC relating
to honey, dated Dec. 20th, 2001; Article 1 in
Connection with Annex II, Annexure no. 18.
b) Food and Agriculture Organisation of
Recommendations – December 2020
the United Nations, Non-Wood Forest
products, 19, Bees and their role in
forest livelihoods BY Nicola Bradbear,
Page no. 85, Honey Categories
concerning intended use (Trade
Categories), Definition of Table Honey
and Industrial or Bakers Honey,
Annexure no. 20.
c) Indian Standard, Extracted Honey –
Specification (Second Revision), IS
4941:1994 (reaffirmed 2002.2014 &
2019), Annexure no. 21.”
FTCP RECOMMENDATION
For the complaint of Dabur Honey
against Marico’s Saffola Honey, the
Fast-Track Complaints Panel (FTCP)
heard both the complainant and the
advertiser. The FTCP was assisted by
Dr. Smita Lele, who was the subject
matter expert.
The FTCP noted that the complaints were
in relation to Saffola Honey making the
following claims:
1. NMR passed
2. 100% pure, 100% sure
The complainant argued that the
advertiser’s sample sent to the NMR
testing laboratory showed that it was
“UNTYPICAL”, and that “NMR
passed” claim should only be allowed if
all their samples were found to be
“Typical” sample. If a sample was
declared either “untypical” or
“Adulterated” such honey cannot be
called NMR passed.
The complainant contented that the
Bruker report while showing the sample
as “untypical” had declared the honey
samples as “not adulterated”, which
was incorrect. They relied upon an
earlier report to demonstrate that
another lab, QSI had mentioned that
such samples are adulterated.
The complainant also alleged that the
advertiser’s honey had further
adulterants, and did not clear tests
related to HMF, water insoluble content
and Nitrofurans based on test data
provided. Hence the claim “NMR
passed” as well as “100% pure, 100%
sure” were misleading to the average
consumer as these samples showed that
they were adulterated.
The complainant further added that
“100% Pure” and “Pure” are different
as far as consumer interpretation is
concerned.
The first question before the FTCP was to
consider whether untypical is the same as
adulterated.
FSS ACT 2006, SECTION 3(1)(A)
defines an “Adulterant” as “any
material which is or could be employed
for making the food unsafe or sub-
standard or mis-branded or containing
extraneous matter”.
The FTCP discussed that adulteration is
a deliberate and intentional act. For a
normal consumer, the concern would
whether the honey they are consuming
is in its natural state or been adulterated
through added sugar/ other adulterants.
FTCP noted that the Bruker report and
communication presented by the advertiser
mentioned “Deviations
to reference distributions do not
necessarily indicate an adulteration”.
The QSI communication to advertiser
also clarified that untypical is not the
same as adulteration, and deviation
means that the sample is different from
the database.
The FTCP accepted the advertiser’s
argument that detection of sugars is not
the same as addition of sugar. The
former could happen as a result of
Recommendations – December 2020
honey fermentation, which is not
uncommon in a tropical country like
India with an unorganized supply chain.
Therefore, the expert view of Intertek
lab is required to differentiate the
presence of sugar due to fermentation
versus adulteration, basis which the
final result pertaining to the sample is
provided. This report clearly stated that
the “adulteration test 34 of the Bruker
analysis is a false positive detection due
to the fermented state of this sample”
The FTCP noted that as per FSSAI, there is
no standard for ethanol for Indian honey.
Ethanol is present in almost all Indian
honeys including the products of both
the advertiser and complainant as
shown by test reports submitted by the
advertiser and this is attributed to due to
high ambient temperatures. As
regarding the classification of honey as
baker’s honey, FTCP noted that
FSSAI does not have any such category
as “Bakers honey” for Indian Honey.
The advertiser argued that Ethanol and
HMF are not adulterants, but in-situ
generated compounds and show state of
the honey sample. So long as they are
below the prescribed limits, the sample
cannot be considered to be adulterated.
The FTCP hence considered that there
was no ground to dispute the lab tests
submitted (table below) that showed
that the tested batches of Saffola Honey
had passed the NMR test. Hence the
objection to the claim of “NMR passed”
was NOT UPHELD.
K
-
0
5
All 53 Markers
Passed
NO
ADULTERATION
K
-
0
6
All 53 Markers
Passed
NO
ADULTERATION
K
-
0
7
All 53 Markers
Passed
NO
ADULTERATION
A
-
0
1
All 53 Markers
Passed
NO
ADULTERATION
K
-
1
0
S.No- 34-
4.460(5.030- 5.070);
NO
ADULTERATION
K
-
1
4
S.No- 34-
4.460(5.030- 5.070)
NO
ADULTERATION
K
-
1
6
S.No- 34-
4.460(5.030-
5.070)
NO
ADULTERATION
On the allegations of other adulterants
being added, the FTCP and expert
noted the test data provided by the
complainant and the advertiser.
The FTCP noted that FSSAI has
notified numerous NABL Accredited
Labs across India under the FSS Act,
2006 for testing of HMF, Water
Insoluble Content & Nitrofurans, using
FSSAI approved methods
It should be noted that the numerical value
of a specific chemical component could be
different
depending on the method of analysis.
Also, the permissible limit of a
particular component in food specified
by different countries varies based on
many factors. Further, interpretation of
results with the same method of
analysis could also lead to different
inferences when the reference standard
is changed.
Recommendations – December 2020
Hence while taking decision the FTCP
has considered FSSAI standards for
honey, analytical methods specified by
FSSAI for a particular component, and
lab reports of NABL accredited labs to
arrive at final conclusion with regards
to acceptability of data and claims.
For HMF testing, the FTCP noted that
Dabur’s test reports show use of a
different method which is the
Spectroscopic method, rather than the
method approved by FSSAI for testing
HMF, which is the AOAC method. The
advertiser was able to demonstrate that
7 different samples of A-01 Batch of
Saffola Honey were tested through three
different FSSAI notified labs by the
AOAC method. All test results
confirmed that Saffola Honey met the
FSS standard on HMF and values were
below 80 mg/kg.
For testing of presence of Water
Insoluble Matter (K-10), Dabur’s test
reports again show use of a different
method than the method approved by
FSSAI for testing Water Insoluble
Matter i.e. DIN 10743, mod (a)1
The FTCP noted the test results shared
by Marico using FSSAI recommended
‘Harmonised Method Of The
International Honey Commission’ for
testing K-10 batch of Saffola Honey in
the FSSAI notified laboratories. All
values were found to be < .1% level as
prescribed by FSSAI for this
For presence of Nitrofurans in (A-01,
K-05, K-09, K-16) FTCP noted the test
results provided by Marico in an FSSAI
notified and NABL accredited labs
using the approved method which
showed presence of Nitrofurnas level
within the prescribed limits, vs. Dabur’s
test reports which showed use of a
different method which appeared to be
an “in-house procedure” and not the
FSSAI approved procedure for testing
Nitrofurans.
It is observed that the advertiser has
very clearly shown in the response plus
with additional test results produced
during FTCP that all the Saffola Honey
batches are NMR tested and passed, all
the samples under discussion when
tested with FSSAI approved methods
and by NABL accredited labs, have
shown values of various parameters
such as HMF, water insolubels etc. are
below permissible limit and product is
complying FSSAI standard for Honey.
Based on these test reports submitted by
the advertiser, the FTCP accepted their
argument that as per tests done in
FSSAI notified labs with methods
prescribed by FSSAI, that there was no
adulteration or presence of undesirable
compounds in their honey. And hence,
there was no basis to dispute the claim
“100% pure, 100% sure”.
The FTCP also noted that the addition
of “100%” to the claim of “Pure” was a
matter of a recent IRP, where the same
has been permitted. There did not
appear to be any grounds to challenge
that based on the submissions made by
the advertiser or the complainant.
Hence the objection to the claim “100%
pure, 100% sure” was NOT UPHELD
Recommendations – December 2020
2012-CCC.22
ADVERTISEMENTS IN CONTRAVENTION OF THE AYUSH COVID-19 ORDER
The following advertisements were considered to be, prima facie, in violation of The Ministry of Ayurveda,
Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) order dated April 1, 2020 prohibiting
publicity and advertisement of AYUSH-related claims for COVID-19 treatment in print, TV and electronic
media. The advertisers were informed of these potential violations and contravention of Chapter III.4 of the
ASCI Code with a Copy to the Ministry of AYUSH.
AYUSH Complaints
Sr.
No
Complaint
No / source
Advertiser
(Brand /
Product)
Media /
Publication Date
Claim/s
Objected to
Complaint
1 2011-C.1980
@
Venkateswara
Ayurveda
Nilayam Ltd
(Chyavanaprasa
Lehya)
Digital Display
(http://Indiaglitz.com)
(30.09.2020)
(Telugu)
Any virus... if
you want to
face it, now
add to your
body, ayurved
power/
immunity
power boost,
divine
medicine/
(energy)
Given the current pandemic
scenario, the claim objected
to imply’s that
consumption of the product
“Chyavanaprasa Lehya”
can prevent & protect from
Covid-19.
2 2011-C.2115
@
Dr Vaidyas
(Herbolab India
Pvt Ltd)
(Immunoherb)
Digital Display
(http://surejob.in )
(13.11.2020)
(English)
Increase
immunity
power! Protect
Yourself
Against Viral
Infections
Now!
Given the current pandemic
scenario, the claim objected
to above imply’s that
consumption of the product
“Immunoherb” can prevent
& protect from Covid-19.