The Chandigarh Consumer Commission has ruled in favour of a student against the Institute of Engineering & Technology (I.E.T.) Bhaddal for unfair practices related to exam opportunity denial. The Commission awarded ₹50,000 compensation to the complainant, Mr. Raman, on December 12, 2025, for the deficiency in service and the resulting academic loss. According to the order, the institute failed to provide a fair chance to the student for appearing in scheduled examinations, affecting his academic progression. This decision highlights the role of consumer protection bodies in addressing education-related grievances and enforcing accountability in academic institutions.
Background of the I.E.T. Bhaddal Case
The complainant, Mr. Raman, took admission in the D-Pharmacy (two-year course) at I.E.T. Bhaddal, Punjab in 2019. He claimed that he enrolled based on assurances given by an agent associated with the institute. The dispute arose when the student was denied an opportunity to sit for an examination, which he was otherwise eligible for. Mr. Raman argued that this denial constituted a deficiency of service and caused him academic and financial loss. The Commission examined the facts, including the institute’s conduct and assurances made at the time of admission.
Consumer Commission Ruling & Compensation Order
Before listing the key points of the order, here is an overview of the Commission’s approach in evaluating education consumer grievances:
- Verified the admission commitments made by the institute and its agent.
- Reviewed whether the institute followed academic norms and examination eligibility requirements.
- Assessed the impact of exam denial on the student’s academic progress and prospects.
Key Directions from the Chandigarh Consumer Commission
- I.E.T. Bhaddal was held liable for denying the student an exam opportunity.
- ₹50,000 compensation was awarded to Mr. Raman.
- The ruling reiterated that educational institutions must uphold fairness in academic processes.
The compensation reflects not only the direct impact but also serves as a deterrent to institutions that may otherwise overlook procedural fairness.
Education Consumer Rights & Institutional Accountability
The Commission’s order underscores the importance of protecting education consumer rights, especially where institutions make specific assurances at admission. Educational bodies are expected to ensure consistent and transparent implementation of academic policies, including exam eligibility and participation. For students and parents navigating similar conflicts, such rulings demonstrate that consumer protection mechanisms can offer effective redress, including monetary relief and official recognition of grievances.
