ITV

Tag: CCC

  • ASCI appoints Partha Rakshit as the new chairman

    ASCI appoints Partha Rakshit as the new chairman

    MUMBAI: Partha Rakshit Associates’ proprietor Partha Rakshit was unanimously elected as the chairman at the board meeting of The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI).
    ASCI’s biggest task in the coming year is to more vigorously disseminate ASCI’s guidelines through training programs believes Partha Rakshit

    The incoming chairman, Partha Rakshit said, “The last couple of years have seen a sea change in ASCI’s approach to self regulating advertising content. Earlier, we acted primarily on complaint received by the public. In May 2012, ASCI setup NAMS, a system of monitoring all new TV and print ads released across India, where trained professionals screened each ad to assess whether it meets ASCI’s code on honest and ethical advertising. This pro-active step has enlarged ASCI’s role as a self regulatory body manifold. I believe ASCI’s biggest task in the coming year is to more vigorously disseminate ASCI’s guidelines through training programs to the advertisers and ad agencies who create the ads and to media who release them, so that the proportion of new ads that meet ASCI’s standards is high at the stage of release itself. ASCI will also liaise more closely with regulators to ensure that ads which do not comply with CCC’s upheld complaint decision are acted upon as per the law of the land”.

    The outgoing chairman of the association, Arvind Sharma said, “Last year has been a very eventful year for ASCI. The NAMS Initiative which has seen a fivefold increase in the Ads complained against (from 177 to 788) has won ASCI the prestigious EASA Silver Award for Best Practices. The CCC now meets every week and approx complaints against 200 Advertisements are deliberated upon every month. Set up of the Online Complaints and Monitoring Services (OCMS) in the new look ASCI website also has started getting complaints against ads coming in from consumers in large numbers. ASCI has also introduced Suspension Pending Investigation where an Advertiser is asked to suspend an Ad immediately pending investigation when that Ad appears to be in serious breach of the Code.’

    Agro Tech Foods director Narendra Ambwani was elected as the vice-chairman; and Mediabrands CEO Shashidhar Sinha was appointed the Honorary Treasurer.
    The other members of the new Board of Governors are: Hemant Bakshi (Hindustan Unilever), Shantanu Khosla (Procter & Gamble Hygiene & Health Care), Jayant Singh (Glaxo SmithKline Consumer Healthcare) from the advertisers, Rajan Anandan (Google India), Sunil Lulla (Times Television Network), Benoy Roychowdhury (HT Media), I. Venkat (Eenadu) from the media industry and the likes of Subhash Kamath (BBH Comms India), Arvind Sharma (Leo Burnett), Srinivasan Swamy (R.K. Swamy BBDO). Allied Professions: Dilip Cherian (Perfect Relations), S.K. Palekar (S.P. Jain Institute of Management), Abanti Sankaranarayanan (CIABC) from the advertising agencies.

    During the year 2012-13, the Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) met 24 times and considered 3007 complaints against 788 advertisements. Of these, complaints against 642 ads were upheld, while 144 were not upheld and 2 were considered non-issues. In 590 cases, the complaint upheld ads have been voluntarily withdrawn or modified as per the CCC’s decisions resulting in over 91% compliance rate.

  • ASCI upholds complaint against 144 ads in June 13

    ASCI upholds complaint against 144 ads in June 13

    MUMBAI: The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) of the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has upheld complaints against 144 out of 174 advertisements in June.

     

    The category leading the pack of misleading ads was health and personal care category followed by education sector. For the first time ever, ASCI has also tracked and upheld complaints against four online advertisements,   out of which one is an advertisement of Hindustan Unilever on the YouTube.

     

    The CCC found two ads violating Chapter III 1(b) of the ASCI Code as they deride colour of the skin in the digital space. The complaints were upheld against HUL’s Ponds BB Cream which is titled ‘The Future of India’ and goes on to talk about various benefits of the product and how women yearn to have fair skin and Emami Fair and Handsome cream ad which shows a flow chart depicting various problems such as inferiority complex, not good looking, etc. affecting dark skin colored people.

    In the health and personal care product or service category, the CCC found that claims of 58 ads released in the press is either misleading or false or not adequately/scientifically substantiated and hence violating Chapter I of the ASCI Code. Some of the health care products or services ads also contravened provisions of the Drug & Magic Remedies Act.

     

    The complaint against HUL’s Sunsilk Perfect Straight ad that shows a girl packing/selecting all her hair straightening equipment and her friend telling her about a shampoo that can keep the hair perfectly straight after attending a gym session, party or even in other situations’  has been upheld for misleading the customers.

     

    Another one making to this list is Johnson’s Baby Natural Massaging Oil advertisement. The ad claims that the ‘oil helps in 47 per cent more weight gain.’ Similarly, Dabur’s Fem Turmeric Herbal Bleach claim of it being a ‘herbal, mild and ammonia free bleach’ and  Zee Laboratories’ advertisement of Virgin Again Gel claiming that the ‘Vagina tightening and rejuvenating gel improves muscle tone’ complaints have been upheld.

     

    Livon Hair Gain Tonic in their print ad claiming ‘Increase hair growth with the latest hair gain formula- Livon Hair Gain Tonic’ is another one making to the list of products being upheld.

     

    The Himalaya Complete Care Toothpaste TVC begins with a message depicting importance of the `anti-oxidant’ having health benefits. The commercial which communicates that anti-oxidant not only kills the germs but also removes toxins and further strengthen the gums and teeth and then, ultimately, concludes with a message that it is much more than gum protection was upheld too.

     

    Second in lead was the education category wherein CCC found 57 different advertisers in print violating the ASCI guidelines for advertising of educational institutions and hence the complaints were upheld.

     

    Eight complaints were upheld in the consumer durables category with brands like Godrej, Samsung, Microtek etc.

     

    In the telecom category, the advertisement of Tata Docomo Network showing a husband quietly eating a pizza at night when the Tata Docomo signature sound starts playing in the background. A voice over that starts ‘When you are enjoying your pizza, think of us because leading pizza chains use our network. So, are you on the network that is everywhere?’ The CCC viewed the TVC and concluded that the claim, ‘leading pizza delivery chains  use Tata Docomo network’, was not substantiated as the support was provided only for one chain i.e. Pizza Hut.   The advertisement contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code.  The complaint was upheld.

     

    Complaints against Bennett Coleman & Co. Ltd, CNBC Awaaz and Punjab Kesari were upheld in the media category.  

     

    Other categories against which complaints were upheld were auto, food and beverage and many other.

     

    ASCI, through the National Advertising Monitoring Service (NAMS), has already started post tracking of advertisements in print and TV against which complaints are upheld.  Initial tracking results show overall there is 90 per cent compliance from advertisers on ASCI’s decisions.

  • Forty complaints relating to ads of health and personal care apart from education upheld by ASCI

    Forty complaints relating to ads of health and personal care apart from education upheld by ASCI

    NEW DELHI: Even as the Information and Broadcasting Ministry has stepped up its action against advertisements making misleading claims, the Advertising Standards Council of India the health and personal care sector leads with a whopping 52 per cent ads (148 out of 287) complaint upheld in the first four months of 2013.

    ASCI’s Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) upheld complaints against forty advertisements relating to health, personal care, and education.

    With the Ministry increasingly referring ads to it as part of a self-regulatory process, ASCI is proactively strengthening its awareness to cover ads in every media form.

    For the first time in April, ASCI received and upheld a complaint against an SMS ad sent out by Hardcastle Restaurants for McDonalds.

    The CCC found several claims in the Health & Personal Care product or service ads released in (newspapers) the press to be either misleading or false or not adequately/scientifically substantiated and violating Chapter I of the ASCI code. Some of the Health Care products or services ads also contravened the provisions of the Drug & Magic Remedies Act and complaints against them were upheld.

    • Naaz India Company: Naaz Fat Cut Granuals in their advertisement claimed that they are a ‘new invention regarding obesity‘, ‘result of 10 years of hard work of doctors‘, ‘no side effects on body‘, ‘body does not become over weight or underweight‘, ‘skin becomes tighter, youthful, beautiful &doesn‘t loosen again‘, ‘stomach becomes flat for sure‘, ‘government recognized medicine‘, ‘expert doctors of Naaz India health care company have made Naaz cut granules for complete fat reduction & it is approved by Government Ayurveda department of India‘.
    • Sagar Dispensary‘s advertisement claimed that ‘Dr. S.A. Ali is an expert in STD‘. ‘Treats patients with problems like less sperms, impotence & provides complete and permanent cure‘, ‘our successful treatment has cured lakhs of disheartened patients and given them new life‘.
    • Anant Clinic‘s advertisement claimed that it ‘provides successful cure of male infertility‘, ‘internal weakness‘, ‘premature ejaculation erectile dysfunction‘, ‘childlessness‘, ‘skin disease‘, ‘psoriasis and tumour in breast‘.
    • GM Pharmacy: Sadabahar Sugar Free‘s advertisement claimed that ‘Sadabahar sugar free is a diabetes killer powder‘, ‘most effective medicine in diabetes‘.
    • Nature Green Herbal Care‘s advertisement claimed that, ‘it increases time of your sexual activities‘, ‘made with miraculous desi herbs‘, ‘100 per cent result, and no side effect‘.
    • Herbal Icon India: Trugesic‘s advertisement claimed that it ‘helps to get rid of kidney stones in just 9 day course‘, ‘magical ayurvedic medicine‘.
    • Alshifa Churna‘s advertisement claimed that it gives ‘result in 10 days of extra fat reduction on stomach‘, ‘gets you relief from constipation, sugar, high blood pressure, gas, acidity and piles without operation‘.
    • Sarkar Dispensary‘s advertisement claimed that it ‘is the Best Ayurvedic clinic of 2011‘
    • NCP Herbal: Sovolin Ayurvedic‘s advertisement claimed that it ‘gives soft, smooth and silky skin with the touch of Sovolin which other cannot give‘.
    • IPSA Labs: Eraser Ayurvedic Skin Cream‘s advertisement claimed that it ‘is a mixture of 8 essential herbs which removers every kind of spots from your face and skin‘.
    • Musli Sakthi Herbals: Musli Sakthi‘s advertisement claimed that there‘s ‘no need of Viagra now‘, ‘first time in the world Musli Sakthi in silver colour powder form‘. ‘Complete result within 7 days‘, ‘happiness in sex and immediate solution for the sex problems‘.
    • Gogaji Hair & Skin Care Centre: Gogaji Hair Oil‘s advertisement claimed that ‘Gogaji Hair Oil stops baldness, stops hair fall.‘
      Stammering Cure Centre advertisement claimed that the centre ‘Partha Bagchi (world leader in stammering cure since 22 years) cures stammering in 12 days.‘
    • R K Herbals Pharmacy‘s advertisement claimed that ‘this formula is 400 years old and has been used by the Nawabs and the Maharajahs to enhance their sexual life.‘ ‘It improves vitality, increases volume and quality of semen, helps in treating erectile dysfunction.‘
    • Raj Power Capsules‘s advertisement claimed that ‘relief to sex weakness in males within 2 hours‘, , ‘nervous weakness‘, ‘quick disposal of sperms‘, ‘inability to enjoy long time sex‘, ‘sex effects due to diabetes to cure all these problem‘.
    • KPR Herbals‘s advertisement claimed that ‘Sex weakness in men and all sex related diseases can be cured by Power Booster‘, ‘not interested in sex‘, ‘couldn‘t achieve complete satisfaction in sex‘, ‘erotic problems‘, ‘fast disposal of semen while on sex‘, ‘couldn‘t satisfy sexually your mate‘, ‘weakness of sperms all these can be cured through our herbal medicine treatment‘.
    • Lotus Granges (India): Scent Soft Bio‘s advertisement claimed that ‘it is made to eliminate objectionable odour with helpful microbes, which digest bad smell‘.
    • Naaz India Company: Naaz Hair Up Oil‘s advertisement claimed that it ‘stops hair fall‘, ‘provides successful cure of baldness‘.
      Kamboj Foods: Kamboj Proper Diet‘s print advertisement claimed that ‘Benefits of Kamboj Proper Diet 100 per cent Natural QPM grain are that, it helps you rid of obesity and weakness, increases IQ and immunity power, makes your married life happy, keeps IT professionals away from stress.‘

    EDUCATION

    With admission process having begun in various institutions, the CCC upheld several claims in print ads by 12 different advertisers as they were not substantiated, thus violating the ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions.

    • Lakhani Academy advertisement claimed that ‘Lakhani Academy will give 100 per cent fees refund, if students fail in IPCC/CPT.‘
      Indian Institute of Learning & Advanced Development‘s advertisements claimed ‘100 per cent assured placement‘, ‘earn back upto 100 per cent of course fee‘.
    • Maharishi Basant Tutorials in its advertisement claimed that ‘guaranteed success program for IIT-Jee, else 100 per cent fee refunds‘.
      Alchemist‘s advertisement claimed that ‘it has more than 22 students in 99 percentile and 78 students in 95 percentile‘.
      Mukils English Academy‘s advertisement claimed that it ‘provides 100 per cent job guarantee on all courses‘.
    • IT‘S THE Education Group, Sai National Intuition of Technology (SNIT)‘ & Tulip India‘s advertisement claimed that they ‘provide 100 per cent placement‘.
    • Fastrack Institute of Technology‘s advertisement claimed, ‘100 per cent Job Guarantee‘ & ‘100 per cent Course Completion Guarantee‘.
      Swami Vivekanand Institute of Technology‘s advertisement claimed that it ‘provides 200 per cent placement.‘
    • Saffron Eduworld: Saffron Eduworld Coaching‘s advertisement claimed ‘JEE 100 per cent guaranteed result or money back.‘
      INPTC advertisements claimed ‘100 per cent placement‘ & ‘INPTC-
    • Mahatma Tutorials: The advertisement claimed that Mahesh Tutorials ‘provides 100 per cent success guarantee‘.
    • Subhash Bose Institute of Hotel Management: The advertisement claimed that ‘273 out of 273 students were placed in 2012‘ by the institute.
    • Amity University: In the ‘MBA 2013 Admission Notice‘ print advertisement, the Amity University is showing its rankings given by ‘Business Today‘ and ‘The Economic Times‘ without providing the details of the years of ranking which is misleading.

    OTHER FMCG:

    Ganesh Wheat Product: Ganesh Atta‘s print advertisement claimed that they are ‘processed through reverse osmosis, Ganesh bajra Atta and Ganesh Makkai Atta, prevent several health hazards and give you more nutritious and delicious rotis every day, Bajra (pearl millet) and Makai (Maize) are processed through water purified by reverse osmosis which makes the rotis more wholesome‘. These claims need to be substantiated. In the absence of comments from the advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claims mentioned in the advertisement were not substantiated. The advertisement contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code. The complaint was UPHELD.

    CONSUMER DURABLES:

    Aqua Corporation: Aqua Pure Guard Water Purifier‘s print advertisement claimed that it is ‘World‘s No.1 water purifier‘. This claim needs to be substantiated. In the absence of comparative data from the Advertiser, the CCC concluded that the claim, ‘World‘s No.1 water purifier‘, was not substantiated. The advertisement contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code. The complaint was UPHELD.

    OTHERS:

    Hardcastle Restaurants: – McDonald‘s promotional SMS shows ‘McVeggie or McChicken FREE on order of Rs. 200/- above with McDonalds. Mention coupon code MCD07 while ordering, valid till 7/1/13. Call Now 66000666. T & C.‘ The complainant was at the McDonald counter at the Food Court, Inorbit Mall, Malad(West) on 6/1/2013 and was informed that this SMS was sent purely for home delivery ONLY.

    According to the complaint, (The) the SMS advertisement that McDonalds sent was totally misleading. It simply said “call now” and not that it applies only for “Home Delivery”. The CCC concluded that the advertisement – SMS was misleading by omission, as it did not mention that the offer of a free McVeggie or McChicken applies only to Home Delivery. The advertisement – SMS contravened Chapter I.4 of the Code. The complaint was UPHELD.

    Pernod Ricard India: Jacob‘s Creek, the print advertisement is a promotion of a liquor brand. Advertising of liquor is prohibited is prohibited by most States. The CCC concluded that the communication was an Advertorial pertaining to a Surrogate product. The complaint was UPHELD as it contravened the Brand Extension Guidelines as mentioned in Chapter III.6 of the Code.

    Dr. Nigam‘s Health: Dr. Nigam Hair Multiplication‘s “Dr. Nigam” has been tarnishing the brand of RichFeel and maligning it in their ads. The brand has also been deliberately using RichFeel‘s brand template colour and a misrepresented brand look alike logo (RichFeel‘s logo has two E‘s, one of which is a mirror image of the other) as well, besides picking up scientifically proven points pertinent to RichFeel in their communication and negatively portraying the brand. The CCC concluded that the advertiser has made unjustifiable use of the name of Richfeel and taken unfair advantage of the goodwill attached to its trade mark and goodwill acquired by its advertising campaign. The advertisement contravened Chapter IV.2 of the Code. The complaint was UPHELD.

    Akansha Hair & Skin Care Herbal Unit: Akansha Sukhparash‘s advertisement claimed that it‘makes your face fair and removes wrinkles from your face‘. After reviewing the advertisement and advertiser‘s response, the CCC concluded that the claim, “makes your face fair”, was not substantiated. The advertisement contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code. This complaint was UPHELD. After reviewing the advertisement, the CCC realized that the ad does not claim to remove wrinkles from face, this complaint was NOT UPHELD.

    During the month of April, the CCC also received complaints against 11 other advertisements. The complaints were received against the advertisements of Aviva Life Insurance Company India Ltd, Euro Fashion Inners International (P) Ltd – Euro Briefs, Great Eastern Management School – GEMS B School, Hindustan Unilever Ltd – Comfort 1 Rinse Fabric Conditioner, Keya Seth‘s Ayurvedic Solution – Keya Seth‘s Umbrella Sunscreen Lotion, Kaleesuwari Refinery Pvt Ltd – Gold Winner Sunflower Oil, Mankind Pharma Ltd -Manforce Condom, McNROE Consumer Products P. Ltd – Wild Stone Deodorant, Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd- Vespa, Times Business Solutions Ltd – Magicbricks.com, United Spirits Ltd – Kingfisher. However, as these advertisements did not contravene ASCI‘s codes or guidelines, the complaints were NOT UPHELD.

  • ASCI upheld complaints against 52 of 84 ads; healthcare

    ASCI upheld complaints against 52 of 84 ads; healthcare

    MUMBAI: ASCI‘s Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) upheld complaints against 52 out of 84 advertisements, which came under the scanner of the self regulatory body in March 2013. Taking a proactive measure to protect the interest of healthcare, education and personal care consumers, ASCI upheld complaints against those ads that were making misleading claims to engage clients, in forming pseudo brand image.

    The major brands that had come under ASCI‘s scanner, include Dabur India Ltd, Procter & Gamble Hygiene & Health Care Ltd, Hindustan Unilever Ltd, Johnson & Johnson Ltd, Ag Herbs (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Zaptech, Garima Career Foundation, Montfort Group of Institute, The Economic Times, Honda Siel Power Products Ltd, Hindustan Unilever Ltd and Eureka Forbes Ltd.

    In March 2013, ASCI witnessed a surge in number of complaints against the deceiving ads, which had mounted to 84. However, all of them did not contravene ASCI‘s codes or guidelines, and 32 complaints were later taken back. Those which didn‘t trespass the code were, Aditya Birla Management Corporation Pvt Ltd- Idea 3 G, Applect Learning Systems Pvt Ltd– Meritnation.com, Cadbury (India) Ltd – Perk Glucose, Carrier Midea India Pvt Ltd – Midea Air Conditioners, Hindustan Unilever Ltd – Dove Elixir Hair Oil and Nitta Gelatin India Limited, Parle Products Pvt Ltd – Parle Londonderry.

    In the case of health & personal care products or services ASCI upheld complaints against those inadequate and unscientific print ads, which had violated the Chapter I of the ASCI code. Some of the healthcare product or services ads also contravened the provisions of the Drug & Magic Remedies Act. Due to which industry‘s major players, including Dabur India Limited, Hindustan Unilever Ltd, Johnson & Johnson Ltd, Dr. Monga Clinic, ClinTech Medical & Aesthetic Center, Rvita Ayurveda Centre, Vaarid Herbal Face Pack and Soliel International came under the fire.

    On the educational fore, there were 14 advertisements that could prove its essence and had violated the ASCI Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions. For instance, players like Zapak, Garima Career Foundation, Mazenet Solution Pvt Ltd and BS Abdur Rahman University, Montfort Group of Institute‘s claims came up futile in providing 100 per cent job to people.

    ASCI‘s regulation didn‘t spare India‘s biggest media conglomerate like Times Group, when ET Now came under scanner for its print ad saying, “ET Now is the undisputed leader on the budget date, and only our competitor will say it was a bad budget.” They have quoted ET Now has 64 per cent of the market share and CNBC TV18 has 36 per cent of the market share.The CCC noted the contents of the ad and concluded that the market share claimed by the advertiser was not adequately substantiated. The advertisement contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code; therefore, the complaint was upheld.

    Above all, there were some other companies from Automobile, FMCG and consumer durable products that flouted the codes of ASCI‘s Consumer Complaints Council (CCC).

  • ASCI upholds 96 complaints against ads in Feb 2013

    ASCI upholds 96 complaints against ads in Feb 2013

    MUMBAI: The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) of the advertising watchdog Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) witnessed a sharp increase in the number of complaints against ads in Healthcare category in February 2013.

    In the healthcare category, the body upheld 36 complaints. The second highest numbers of complaints were seen in the education category, most of which claimed a guarantee 100 per cent job placement.

    In the healthcare category, Dabur Chyawanprash‘s print ad claimed that “Dabur Chyawanprash provides three times more immunity,” “helps improve the ability to fight illness by three times” and “ONLY Dabur Chyawanprash provides immunity”. The advertisers were not able to substantiate the claim with necessary support and data. The ad contravened Chapter I.4 of the Code and the complaint against the ad was upheld.

    The CCC found following claims in print ads by 35 different advertisers as either misleading or false or unsubstantiated and hence complaint against ads upheld:

    Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd – Volini claimed that “99 per cent doctors have used Volini to relieve their pain” and “Volini No.1 doctors‘ prescribed pain reliever”, “since last 12 years”.

    Bakson Drugs and Pharmaceuticals – Bakson‘s range of products claimed that it “is the World‘s largest Homeopathic corporate.” Bourn Hall Clinic – In Vitro Fertilisation treatment ad claimed “Infertility treatment centre with the world‘s best success rate”, “World‘s first and highest success rate giving IVF (Test tube baby clinic).”

    Umalaxmi Organics Sugar Remedy claimed that it‘s “India‘s No.1 drug for sugar”, “Clinically proven”, “Trust of doctors, relief from diabetes.”

    Naturoveda Health World – Naturovedic treatment claimed that “Naturoveda has successfully treated more than one lakh patients till now”, “Naturoveda eradicates the disease right from its roots without any side effect”, “We treat physical weakness (male/female), diabetes, obesity”, “underweight, piles, joint pain, asthma, stomach problems, skin aliments, female disease, and hair problems”, “Winner of Hakim Ajmal Khan Global Award for Best Ayurvedic and Unanai Clinic.”

    Dr. Nigam‘s Goodhealth – Stem Cell Hair Transplant, claimed that “Dr. Nigam has pioneered the procedure of spotlipo and has given well sculptured figures to millions of people. Bollywood celebrities, politicians, business tycoons and cine artists prefer him to other doctors”, “Dr. Nigam co-partners India‘s first and only stem cell hair lab which was started three years back by a group of doctors with an investment of 100 crores.”

    The other ads that were upheld in the Heathcare category are of Jagruti Test Tube Baby Center, Jolly Vaseer Capsule and Ointment, Jolly Fat Go, Amrut Navjeevan Ayurvedic Oil, Gautam Clinic, Chandan Hospital, Dr. Krishnan Cancer Healer Center, Slim I Lipo, Raj Clinic, Ashrafi Clinic, Mahamaya Sales and Services, Fit and Fine Health Club, Sussrutha Pharmaceuticals, New Vision Laser Centers, Tara Homeopathy Clinic, Life Slimming and Cosmetic Clinic, Hakim Tulsiprasad Agarwal, New Look Laser Clinic, Alcon Laboratories India, Shreeji Upchar Kendra, Ego Wellness, JDM Ayur Psoriasis Research Centre, Nuture Health Care, Lotus Herbal, REPL India, Aadhar Herbal, Mohak Hi-Tech Speciality Hospital claimed “Begin healthy life, free from obesity and diabetes”, “The only approved institute for surgery for obesity and diabetes.”

    All above mentioned claims made in print advertisements needed to be substantiated with necessary support data, market research and analysis/data. The CCC concluded that in the absence of comparative data, the claims mentioned in the advertisements and cited in the complaints were inadequately substantiated. The advertisements contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code. The advertisements of Jolly Pharma (India) – Jolly Sunsex Gold and Mahamaya Sales and Services – Khatod Sanjeevini Plus also contravened Chapter III.4 of the Code. These complaints were upheld.

    In the education category, PGP College of Engineering And Technology‘s print ad claimed that PGP College of Engineering and Tech “provides 100 per cent placement provided through Campus Requirement”. The CCC concluded that as all the students were not placed, the claim of “Provides 100% Placement provided through Campus Requirement”, was not substantiated and was misleading. The advertisement contravened Chapters I.1 and I.4 of the Code. The complaint was upheld.

    Little Kidz Education – Smartkidz Play School in their print ad claimed that it “is ranked No. 5 among 300 branded preschools in India”. The CCC noted that Silicon India ranked Little Kidz No.5 on the basis of best practices in Franchising, but to claim it as the 5th rank among branded preschools is misleading by implication. The advertisement contravened Chapter I.4 of the Code. The complaint was upheld.

    Complaints against the following claims made in print advertisements by 27 different advertisers were upheld by CCC:
    Narayanaguru College Of Engineering – Off Campus Recruitment claimed that it is the “only company in ASIA which is fully operated by Female Employees”, “Asia‘s Largest Networking & Web Hosting Company.”

    La Militaire Academy claimed “Selection Guaranteed!!!”, “Already Selected 1850+ Officers and 8500+ in Other Ranks.”

    DGN Maritime Academy – Join Merchant Navy ad claimed its “Placement 100 per cent assured.”

    Aakash Educational Services- Medical and Engineering Entrance Exam claimed it “is India‘s No. 1 Coaching Brand.”

    S P T Saini Classes claimed it “gives 100 per cent selection guarantee in writing on stamp paper.”

    The other ads that were upheld were of Voice of God Polytechnic College, Sankara Educational Institution, Shekhawati Group Of Institutions, Annai Nursing & Catering College, ST Anto Group Of Institutions, Arjun Shooting Club, FGL Academy, Institute For Excellence In Services & Planning, ICA Infotech, Indian Institute Of Airways Training, The Princeton Review, F2 Fun and Fitness (India), VLCC Institute, International School Of Corporate Management, First Rank Publication, Sri Venkateswara Polytechnic College, Ideacount Education, Anibrain XDI, IIHT Networks, Chandragupt Institute Of Management, Academy For Professional Excellence.

    All these claims made by the advertisers in the education sector need to be substantiated with necessary support data, documentation and past records. In the absence of comments from the advertisers, the CCC concluded that the claim mentioned in the advertisement and cited in the complaint, was not substantiated. The advertisement contravened ASCI Code‘s Guidelines for Advertising of Educational Institutions and Chapter I.1 of the Code. All above complaints were upheld.

    In the personal healthcare and homecare sector, Himani Boroplus Antiseptic Cream claimed in their TVC that “the said cream has been used by 50 crore Indians”. The data presented by Emami Limited was inadequately substantiated. The advertisement contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code. The complaint was upheld.

    Meanwhile, Loreal Paris Total Repair 5 shampoo claimed that L‘Oreal Total Repair 5 Shampoo is “Voted India‘s No. 1 Shampoo”. The CCC concluded that whilst L‘Oreal was voted – Product of the year (POY) – product innovation, the claim that it was “India‘s No. 1 Shampoo”, was misleading by implication. The advertisement contravened Chapter I.4 of the Code. The complaint was upheld.

    Oriflame India‘s Oriflame Ecollagen claimed that “Smart whitening complex: Restricts the production and distribution of melanin, the key cause of skin pigmentation”, “Tri-piptide complex: Boots collagen production and re-plums wrinkles from within in length, width and depts.”, “Ecollagen 3D+ re-plumps wrinkles from within in 3 dimensions”, “Reduces wrinkles appearance and brightens skin, visible reduction of dark spots after 12 weeks”. The CCC concluded that the claim, “Smart whitening complex: Restricts the production and distribution of melanin, the key cause of skin pigmentation”, was inadequately substantiated. The advertisement contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code. This complaint was upheld; whilst the claim that “it reduces wrinkles and results in visible reduction of dark spots” was substantiated. This complaint was not upheld.

    Glade Touch and Fresh in their TVC claimed that “ordinary air fresheners only mask the foul smell whereas the product in question eliminates the foul smell”. The CCC concluded that the TVC did not disparage the Complainant‘s product. This complaint was not upheld. In the absence of comparative data, the claim that Glade Touch & Fresh “is superior to the other air freshener blocks”, was not substantiated. The advertisement contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code. This complaint was upheld.

    The other ads that were upheld were of Life Slimming and Cosmetic Clinic, Safechem Industries.

    Complaints against the following claims made in print advertisements by eleven different advertisers were upheld by CCC: L‘Oreal Youth Code Luminize Range claimed that it “contains LUMI-Gen technology, which identifies light infusing genes in the skin and enriches them to give even and luminous skin”, “Try Youth Code Luminize and see yourself how 90 per cent women experienced a more even or luminous skin, Super: Skin evaluation, after eight weeks”, “More even looking skin tone – Unifying effect”, “Dewy, luminous finish – Liquid Light technology”, “Enhances and refines – with daily use”, “Liquid Andersen juxtaposes micromirror plates on the skin that reflect light, giving you even and luminous skin”, “This serum is a fluid “Oil in water” emulsion that is 40x more concentrated in Vitamin Cg”.

    Metro Poly Clinic claimed that it “Stops hair fall 100 per cent”.

    Lotus White Glow claimed that it “is Enriched with Grape, Mulberry, Sazifraga extracts and milk enzymes, it also protects the skin from harmful UVA & UVB rays”.

    Mankind Pharma‘s Kustody Neem Face Wash claimed that it “provides Effective Fairness”.

    Ultratech India‘s 18 Again claimed “Post pregnancy issues?”, “Infection?”, “Sour relationship?”, “Here‘s the answer to questions you fear most; 18 again – Female renewal gel. Tightens and Rejuvenates, for vaginal use only”.

    Vasu Pharmaceuticals‘ Trichup Hair Care Range claimed “150 million people all over the World are using Trichup”.

    The other ads were of Pangene Biotech, Milagrow Business And Knowledge Solutions, Vasu Pharmaceuticals, Ratan Ayurvedic Sansthan and Result Advertising.

    All these claims needed to be substantiated with necessary support data and test reports of efficacy. In the absence of comments from the advertisers, the CCC concluded that the claims mentioned in the advertisements and cited in the complaints were not substantiated. The advertisements contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code. Complaints against these ads were upheld.

    In the consumer durables category, Bajaj Quick Chef Induction Cooker, in their print ad claimed “Switch to Bajaj Induction Cookers. Save up to 65 per cent costs”, “Bajaj Induction Cooker is better than Gas stove in terms of Time – To boil 2 ltrs of water Gas stove takes 9 min and Rs 1.90 and Bajaj induction cooker takes 6 min and Rs 0.65 (50 per cent faster and saves 65 per cent cost)”. The CCC concluded that the claims mentioned in the advertisements and cited in the complaint were not substantiated adequately. The advertisement contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code. The complaint was upheld.

    Complaints against the following claims made in print advertisements by two different advertisers were upheld by CCC:
    Gangotri Suppliers – Nutech Solar Heater claimed that it “has 1.5 lacs satisfied customers”, “India‘s fastest growing solar company”.

    Kevin Power Solutions claimed “Awarded Power Brands “Rising Stars” of the year 2012-13″, “India‘s fastest growing Inverter, UPS, Battery Company”, “Highest manufacturer of Sine Wave Inverter/ UPS”, “Largest Range of Products in the Industry (400VA-300KVA)”.

  • ASCI gets powers to suspend code violating advertisers instantly

    MUMBAI: For long, some rogue advertisers have been taking advantage of the fact that the advertising industry watchdog, Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI), takes time to cane them if they have violated any advertising codes. That will be a thing of the past, with ASCI introducing its Suspension Pending Investigation (SPI) policy. Under this, ads that breach ASCI’s code will be withdrawn immediately, pending decision of its Consumer Complaint Council (CCC).

    In September 2012, ASCI had said it was working on amending its articles of association along with the appointment of its new chairman Arvind Sharma, bringing it in line with the codes of some of the other Self-Regulatory Organisation (SROs) like the Advertising Standards Authority of the UK.

    The new SPI article states: “In exceptional circumstances, when it appears prima facie that an advertisement is in serious breach of the code and its continued transmission on/ through/ by any medium causes or has the effect of causing public harm and/or injury or its continuation is against public interest, then ASCI would, pending investigation and decision by CCC, forthwith require the advertiser/ the advertising agency/ the media buying agency and the media concerned to immediately suspend the release of advertisement.

    “Also, in the event of suspension of any ad in the manner as aforesaid, the CCC shall at the earliest and not later than 30 days from the date of the suspension, adjudicate whether or not the advertisement is in breach of the Code and pass appropriate order accordingly after giving a reasonable opportunity to hear to the advertiser whose advertisement has been suspended. This decision of the suspension is to be taken by the chairman (or, in his absence, the Vice Chairman) of ASCI, in consultation with two members of the CCC.”

    The initiative is a personal victory for Sharma who has been mooting this for a while. Says he: “Suspension Pending Investing is an important landmark for ASCI. It will ensure immediate action against advertisements that are clearly seen as against public interest. This initiative will go a long way in getting seriously offending ads removed immediately before they cause any damage to the consumers and society in general. We expect the advertising sector consisting of advertisers, ad agencies and media to support this very important initiative wholeheartedly to protect the interests of Indian consumers and general public.”

    For the record, ASCI has in the recent past taken other initiatives to speed up its decision making process. From monthly meetings of its CCC, it has moved to bi- monthly meetings. This has reduced the – average complaint adjudication – time from 45 days to 30 days. ASCI has also introduced the fast track complaint redressal process which provides decision against intra industry complaints within seven days.

    Clearly, the bells are tolling for rogue advertisers and agencies.

  • ASCI upholds a record 99 complaints in January

    MUMBAI: Kicking off the new year, The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) of the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) upheld the highest ever number of complaints against misleading advertisements in January.

    Ninety-nine out of 108 complaints received have been upheld by the CCC. ASCI’s National Advertising Monitoring Service (NAMS) also contributed in tracking down the misleading claims made in ads in various sectors.

    ASCI said in a statement, “The NAMS initiative has helped in strengthening the self-regulation and redressal process manifold. The proactive monitoring has helped in tracking a wider numbers of misleading ads month on month. This is a positive development as it is helping to protect consumer’s interest in India.”

    The highest number of advertisements was pulled back in the healthcare segment with 28 complaints being upheld. The second highest number of complaints was upheld in the education sector with the CCC finding 22 advertisements misleading or making claims that are not substantiated by sufficient data. Sixteen advertisements in the personal care category, 10 in consumer durables segment, nine in the miscellaneous category, three each in the food and beverages and real estate segments and two advertisements in the media category were pulled up by the CCC as they were found to have contravened Chapter I.4 of the Code.

    The advertisers that were asked to pull out or modify their ads for the month of January included Star India, Whirpool, Natraj Electricals, Radikal Foods, Bennett Coleman Co Ltd, Tata Housing Frankfin Institute of Air Hostesses, Marico, Hindustan Unilever, Gillette and Rupa.

    Star India Ltd’s Star Cricket TVC shows “a boy with cricket bat jumping over a creek and his face changing to Chestshwar Pujara‘s”. The advertisement is trying to communicate that children who take risks turn into top cricketers. The element of risk is clearly visible when other children are shown astonished to see the feat of the boy jumping the creek. This scene clearly violates the ASCI Code. Also the shown jump seems morphed which accentuates the risk as normal child cannot jump such a broad creek.

    The CCC concluded that the boy jumping over small creek shows a dangerous practice and manifests a disregard for safety without justifiable reason. The TVC contravened Chapter III.3 of the ASCI Code and the complaint was UPHELD.

    BCCL’s ET NOW has a print advertisement that shows a comparison of viewership of some English business news channels in a stated target audience group and market. The primary objection is that the source of the data is not mentioned. Assuming that the source is TAM, the market share numbers stated in the graph are incorrect. The visual has pictures of people who are Engineers, Doctors, Entrepreneurs & Corporates whereas the TG stated for the graph is males, 25-44, Sec A which would include these professionals, students and non-working individuals as well. The CCC concluded that the source of the data substantiating the claim was not mentioned in the advertisement and the manner in which the comparative data was presented was misleading as the base level was not mentioned. The advertisement was found misleading and contravened Chapter I.4 of the Code. The complaint was, thus, upheld.

  • Asci pulls up three HUL ads in December

    MUMBAI: The Advertising Standards Council of India (Asci) has pulled up three ads from fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) manufacturer and marketer Hindustan Unilever. In its new update, the advertising watchdog has named the ads of New Rin, New Clear anti-dandruff shampoo and Comfort Fabric Conditioner as erring.

    For the month of December, Asci‘s Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) upheld complaints against 43 out of 50 ads.

    Of the 43 complaints upheld, 17 belong to the healthcare category while seven are from the home and personal care category. Five ads from education and four from consumer durables category have been pulled up. Other categories where ads have been found misleading include one each from telecom, real estate, food and beverage and surrogate ads.

    The New Rin TVC had claimed that it is the “only detergent powder in India which gives freedom from yellowness and gives shining whiteness”. This claim is qualified by a super stating “Perception of yellowness removed through patented technology”. The use of “patented technology” does not mean that the same benefit of “giving freedom from yellowness” cannot be claimed by using any other technology. The super does not provide the details of the independent agency which conducted the tests.

    Asci has said that in absence of independent technical data, this claim is false and misleading. The advertisement promoting the New Rin is based on the concept that “After repeated washing, clothes turn dull and yellow”. The said concept is not completely correct and is in fact misleading consumers. The visual showing the comparison between New Rin and other detergent powder is qualified by a super which states “creative representation of yellowness removal”. This in effect means that the shots showing the shirt washed with the other detergent and the shirt washed with New Rin cannot be replicated into reality. This is incorrect and misleads the consumers.

    The Fast Track Consumer Council (FTCC) considered the technical data provided by the advertiser and the complainant. The FTCC concluded that the use of “patented technology” does not mean that the same benefit of “giving freedom from yellowness” cannot be claimed by using any other technology.

    The advertiser provided data of products removing yellowness in various degrees of efficacy. Hence the claim of being the only product to remove yellowness was not substantiated. The claim, “New Rin is the only detergent powder in India which gives freedom from yellowness and gives shining whiteness”, is false and misleading as it is not the only detergent to do so. The advertisement contravened Chapters I.1 and I.4 of the Code. The complaint was upheld. At the request of the advertiser, the CCC reviewed the decision after HUL provided additional data and upheld the decision of the FTCC.

    In case of the New Clear anti-dandruff shampoo advertisement, the TVC claims that New Clear “Is the best anti-dandruff shampoo in the country”, with a super “Based on clinical studies, microkill & ZOI data”. This superiority claim needs to be substantiated with technical and comparative data, and with details of tests/trials reports from an independent recognised testing institution. The claim, “Preferred choice of 9 out of 10 users”, is ambiguous. Where on one hand the claim does not clarify the parameters for which the Clear shampoo is preferred, the claim on the other hand is being used by Clear in its TVC. This claim is qualified by a super stating, “Based on consumer study”. This super does not state the source of the study and nor does it state the date on which the said study was conducted. The super, “Based on consumer study”, is not of adequate size and duration, and blurred so as to mislead the consumers.

    The FTCC examined the technical substantiations of both the advertiser and the complainant with respect to clinical studies like BoSS (Bio-availability on stimulated scalp), ZOI (Zone of Inhibition) data, etc, and concluded that the claim of New Clear being the “best anti-dandruff shampoo in the country” is false and misleading. The CCC considered the additional data provided by the advertiser and concluded that the earlier decision of the FTCC stands and the complaint was upheld.

    Other advertisers to be pulled up include Dabur India, Nature Health Care, SBS Biotech, Keya Seths Aromatherapy, Clintech Medical and Aesthetic Center, Kangra Herb Pvt Ltd, Rediscover – Laser, Skin, Slimming and Ayurvedic Clinic, Ego Wellness Pvt Ltd, Dr. Jains Zero Figure Clinic, Medinn Elle Herbal Care Pvt Ltd, Asian Institute Of Infertility Management, Naturoveda Health World, Niramay Consultancy, Maruti Herbal, Cure Spects Laser Ltd, G K Health Care, Maharshi Skin Centre, Rana Yog Chikitsa Kendra, Sareen Hair Clinic, Cocoona Cosmetic Surgery, Eleganza Skin And Cosmetic Surgery Clinic, Pernod Ricard India (P) Limited, Luminous Water Technologies Pvt Ltd, Megha Associates, Secured Engineers, Padmini Impex Pvt Ltd, Natraj Atta Chakki, Ark Prem Constructions, Education Express, Focus Educare Pvt Ltd, Global Institute Of Fire And Industrial Safety, Vivekanand Classes, Prestige Institute Of Engineering and Science and Aircel.

    The advertisement of Step Up and its claim is under judgment in the High Court of Bombay. Hence there was no decision taken on this complaint by the CCC

    During the month of December, the CCC also received complaints against six ads. The complaints were received against the advertisements of Ceat Ltd’s ‘Ceat Tyres’, Skin Alive’s ‘Forever Young’, Kovai Medical Center and Hospital’s ‘Effective Treatment for Thyroid Disorders & Cancer’, Gillette India LTD’s ‘Oral-B Cross Action Pro-Health toothbrush’, Clinic Dermatech’s ‘Beauty Solutions for Skin Problems’, Procter & Gamble Home Products Ltd’s ‘Pantene Pro-V shampoo’. However, as these advertisements did not contravene Asci’s codes or guidelines, the complaints were not upheld.

  • ASCI’S NAMS doubles number of misleading Ads monitored in 6 months

    MUMBAI: Advertising Standard Council of India‘s (ASCI) National Advertising Monitoring Service (NAMS) has succeeding in increased monitoring of misleading advertisements.

    In the six months of its existence, NAMS has doubled the number of misleading ads registered with Consumer Complaints Commission (CCC). It did not give the number of complaints filed against misleading advertisements. It, however, said the number of ads against which complaints have been upheld has jumped from 177 over full year last year to 205 within six months from May to October 2012.

    NAMS has been rigorously tracking most of the advertisements being released across print and television.

    ASCI chairman Arvind Sharma said, “This is a commendable milestone for the The National Advertising Monitoring Service‘ initiative introduced by ASCI, as we have been successful in doubling the number of misleading ads tracked within a very short period. NAMS is equipped to closely scrutinise a wide range of ads, thus preventing the exposure of misleading communication. We are confident that NAMS initiative will go a long way in not just helping the ad self-regulation redressal process manifold, but also in safeguarding the interest of Indian consumers.”

    The CCC has upheld 16 out of the 23 complaints against advertisements from various sectors it received for the month of October. Of these, six were from the education sector, two each from personal care, healthcare and media sectors and one each from the food and beverages, and insurance sectors.

    The CCC has upheld a complaint against Glaxosmithkline Consumer Healthcare Ltd. The complaint against Glaxosmithkline advertisement said that the print advertisement claimed that it was ‘1 Health Drink, 5 Proven Benefits‘, ‘Clinically proven‘ accompanied by the statement ‘claims based on a study by NIN Hyderabad comparing micronutrients enriched beverage vs non-fortified placebo‘ which was misleading and unsubstantiated as it does not disclose the year in which the said study was conducted and fails to disclose whether the product tested as part of the study was Horlicks. The complaint further agrued that the statement, “In an extensive 14-month clinical research involving 869 kids, half the kids were given Horlicks with milk and the other half kids were given an ordinary health drink. As a result of this study, Horlicks kids were found to have more bone area, more muscles, better concentration, more active nutrients and healthier blood. Making Horlicks India‘s only health drink shown to improve 5 signs of growth in children”. “Making Horlicks India‘s only health drink & shown to improve 5 signs of growth in children”, is false and misleading.

    The CCC ruled that the advertiser has failed to disclose the source of any well researched / accepted literature or reputed institute that suggests or recognizes these signs as “signs of growth”. The advertisement does not disclose the manner in which Horlicks provides comprehensive nutrition as has been claimed in the advertisement. The recommendation of Horlicks in every glass of milk is in contradiction with its own recommendation on the pack of Horlicks. Whereas the Horlicks pack, which also makes the same claim of 5 signs of growth, recommends Horlicks to be taken either in milk or water, both the print and the electronic advertisement recommend that Horlicks be taken with milk. The CCC noted that five out of the seven claims did not follow the guidelines prescribed by ASCI and therefore upheld the complaint.

    Cadila Healthcare Limited‘s Everyuth Natural Fairness Face Wash fell into trouble for its claim that it is the only one to have active mini capsules that clear the skin and make it look fair. The complainant argued that the advertiser needs to provide scientific proof and comparative data in substantiation of the claim. The data submitted by the advertiser is not a technology unique to them. The CCC concluded that the scientific data provided did not adequately support the claim that Everyuth Natural Fairness Face Wash “is the ONLY one to have active mini capsules that clear the skin and make it look fair”. The advertisement contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code and was upheld.

    HUL‘s Pepsodent Expert Protection Toothpaste print advertisement was found to disobey the Guidelines on Supers Size prescribed by ASCI. As per the complaint about the print advertisement, the complainant got the impression that she does not need to use dental floss or mouth wash as Pepsodent Expert Protection Toothpaste claims to provide the same equivalent benefits. On minutely going through this print advertisement, it shows a postscript at the end of the same which cannot be read at all. The CCC upheld the complaint and noted the advertiser‘s assurance that they have stopped the advertisement.

    The CCC upheld the complaint against IVYGMAT which offers GMAT Prep Course. The advertisement claimed that 356 students scored in the range of 760-790 marks in the last one year. It further said, “Train with the perfect 800 score trainer with minimum official GMAT Score”, and “The only trainer in India with a verbal score of 99th percentile.” The complaint found the claims to be false as the advertiser did not substantiate them with supporting data. The CCC concluded that the claims made in the advertisement and cited in the complaint were inadequately substantiated.

    The Institute of Finance and Accounts claimed 100 per cent job guarantee. According to the complaint, the advertiser‘s claim needs to be substantiated with statistical and other necessary data. The CCC agreed and found the advertisement contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code and upheld the complaint.

    The complaint against VPM Classes said that the advertiser‘s claims of being ‘India‘s no.1 coaching institute for higher education, having 800+ selections in MSc/ PhD/ MTech exams‘ and having ‘India‘s best performance in NET/IIT JAM‘ need to be substantiated with statistical and other necessary data. The CCC concluded that in the absence of comparative data of other institutes, the claims were not substantiated thus breached Chapter I.1 of the Code and the complaint was upheld.

    The NIBM PO Maker Institute‘s advertisement claimed that it has an important role in providing placements to more than 1,000 students during the last ten years and also claims to have been honoured as No. 1 in Jharkhand. The complainant argued that these claims need to be substantiated with statistical and other necessary data which the CCC agreed to and upheld the complaint considering it to disobey Chapter I.1 of the Code.

    In the complaint against Sky Academy the complainant argued that the advertiser‘s claim to be ‘India‘s No.1 Air Hostess/Flight Stewards Training Institute & offers 100% job placement‘ need to be substantiated with statistical and other necessary data. The CCC concluded that the claims mentioned in the advertisement and cited in the complaint, were not adequately substantiated. The complaint was upheld.

    Electronic Technology and Telecommunication‘s TVC claimed that ET & T ET & T-VC training provided in the institute helps earn 30k-40k per month. Here to the claim was found unsubstantiated with necessary statistical data and was upheld.

    Two complaints were reported against VLCC Personal Care Ltd for its advertisement on VLCC Health Care Shape Up and VLCC Shape Up Waist and Tummy Trim Gel. The basis of the complaints was that the ads were not substantiated with statistical and other necessary data to support their claims and were thus upheld.

    In the complaint against Dainik Divya Marathi the complainant argued that the ad claimed that the publication is No.1 in terms of circulation and readership. The advertiser has provided `In-house MIS‘ and `IMRB‘ as the source of their claim. The figures are neither supported by the Audit Bureau of Circulation nor by the IRS. Also, they have provided incorrect advertising market share figures for various categories without mentioning any source. Thus the figures are intentionally misleading. The CCC noted the contents of the brochure and concluded that the advertisement – brochure contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code and upheld the complaint. The CCC noted the advertiser‘s response that the said brochure has already been withdrawn.

    The other complaints that were upheld were against Max Life Insurance (Shiksha Plus II child plans), Alda Chimney and Sahara India TV Network all found to have contravened Chapter I.1 of the Code. The last advertiser was also found to have flouted Chapter I.4 of the Code.

    During the month of October, the CCC received complaints against seven additional advertisements. The complaints were received against the advertisements of Preethi Kitchen Appliances Pvt Ltd‘s ‘Preethi Mixer Grinders‘, Modi Naturals Limited‘s ‘Oleev Active Oil‘, Okaya Power Ltd‘s ‘Nasaka Xtra Pure Water Purifier‘, Nails Arina, Om Sai Ayurved India Ltd, Cadbury India Ltd (*)‘S ‘Cadbury Dairy Milk‘, Johnson & Johnson Ltd‘s ‘Listerine Mouthwash‘ . However, as these advertisements did not contravene ASCI‘s codes or guidelines, the complaints were not upheld.

  • Arvind Sharma is new chairman of ASCI

    Mumbai: Chairman of Leo Burnett India Sub Continent Arvind Sharma has been elected as the new chairman of the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) at its board meeting held on Thursday.

    He replaces Eenadu Director I Venkat. Sharma is also the President of Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI).

    Partha Rakshit Associates proprietor Partha Rakshit has been elected vice-chairman while CEO-designate of Maxus Global Vikram Sakhuja has been re-appointed the honorary treasurer.

    The other members of the new Board of Governors are: Advertisers: Narendra Ambwani (Agro Tech Foods), Hemant Bakshi (Hindustan Unilever), Rajiv Dube (Aditya Birla Management Corporation), Shantanu Khosla (Procter & Gamble Hygiene & Health Care); Media: Rajan Anandan (Google India), Sunil Lulla (Times Global Broadcasting Co.), Benoy Roychowdhury (HT Media), I Venkat (Eenadu); Advertising Agencies: Subhash Kamath (BBH Comms India), Srinivasan Swamy (R.K. Swamy BBDO). Allied Professions: Dilip Cherian (Perfect Relations), Dhananjay Keskar (IBS), Pranesh Misra (Brandscapes Consultancy P. Ltd.).

    Releasing the report for 2011-12, ASCI said the Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) met 16 times and considered 2,986 complaints against 176 advertisements. Of these, complaints against 103 ads were upheld, 69 were rejected and 4 were considered non-issues. As many as 89 ads complaints against whom were upheld were voluntarily withdrawn or modified as per the CCC‘s decisions, resulting in over 86% compliance rate.

    Venkat said, “The last year has seen ASCI take various initiatives to strengthen the Self Regulatory System. These included increasing the frequency of Consumer Complaints Council to twice a month, introduction of the Fast Track Service, having a National Conference on Strengthening Self-Regulation of Advertising Content, engaging with young Creatives through a Mobile Film Contest at the Goafest, interacting with the Department of Consumer Affairs and participating in their Conferences on Misleading Advertisements. ASC has taken a giant leap forward in introducing the National Advertising Monitoring Service (NAMS) which monitors 1500 TV and 45000 newspaper Ads per month. All in all a very satisfying year for ASCI. ASCI is the first self regulatory body in the world to initiate monitoring of almost all newly released ads in print and TV nationally with NAMS.”

    The incoming Chairman Arvind Sharma said, “It is indeed an honour to be elected as Chairman of ASCI which has progressively contributed to effective Self-Regulation in Advertising content. We are confident that the Ad sector, industry bodies‘ regulators, consumer activists and the general public will actively seek ASCI‘s services and take Self-Regulation forward.”