Byju’s, other edtech startups pulled up for ‘misleading’ advertisements

Customers of education-tech companies in India including Byju’s — one of India’s most valuable startups — have accused the companies of “aggressive mis-selling” and of making tall claims in their advertisements. The consumer affairs department has received 147 consumer complaints against edtech startups, sources told The Economic Times.

The Centre took serious note of allegations against startups during a meeting with edtech companies and India Edtech Consortium (IEC) on June 24, 2022. The concerns against Byju’s and other prominent edtech companies were highlighted during this discussion.

“Aggressive mis-selling to parents is something that was discussed, among other issues, along with certain claims being made in advertisements. Byju’s was advised to work closely with the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI),” one of the officials told ET.