OPJS University offering courses under the nomenclature “Master in C.A.” and “Bachelor in C.A.” is a punishable offence under the CA Act, 1949

It has been brought to our notice that OPJS University, Churu (Rajasthan), is offering/conducting certain programmes/courses under the nomenclature “Master in C.A.” and “Bachelor in C.A.” (under the School of Chartered Accountant). Conduct of such courses under the said nomenclature are in contravention of various provisions of the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949 (CA Act) and various other laws. It is stated that the ICAI is seized of the said matter and appropriate action against the OPJS University, in accordance with the law, has been initiated.

In this connection, it is relevant to mention that the ICAI is the only body set up by an Act of the Parliament, viz. The Chartered Accountants Act, 1949, to regulate the profession of Chartered Accountants in India and no person/body other than the Institute can perform the functions entrusted to the ICAI under the said Act. The use of the expression “Chartered Accountant” or its abbreviation “C.A.” by a person other than the member of the ICAI is a punishable offence under the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949. Further, it may be mentioned that awarding any degree, diploma or certificate or bestowing of any designation which indicate or purports to indicate the position or attainment of any qualification or competence similar to that of a member of the ICAI is also punishable offence under the CA Act.