Description

SEBI mandates all regulated entities to ensure their digital platforms comply with disability accessibility requirements under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016.

Summary

SEBI has issued mandatory compliance requirements for all regulated entities to ensure their digital platforms are accessible to persons with disabilities under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. All stockbrokers, mutual funds, depositories, clearing corporations, and other SEBI-regulated intermediaries must implement accessibility features with specific timelines and undergo certified audits.

Key Points

  • All SEBI regulated entities must comply with RPwD Act 2016 provisions for digital platform accessibility
  • Mandatory appointment of IAAP certified accessibility professionals as auditors
  • Phased implementation with specific milestones over 6 months
  • Annual compliance reporting required to designated authorities
  • Covers all digital platforms used by investors including websites and mobile applications

Regulatory Changes

  • New mandatory compliance with Section 40 (Accessibility), Section 42 (Access to ICT), and Section 46 (Time limits) of RPwD Act 2016
  • Introduction of certified accessibility audit requirements
  • Establishment of annual reporting framework for accessibility compliance
  • Designation of specific reporting authorities for different types of regulated entities

Compliance Requirements

  • Submit list of digital platforms within 1 month
  • Submit initial compliance/action report within 1 month
  • Appoint IAAP certified accessibility auditor within 45 days
  • Complete accessibility audit within 3 months
  • Remediate findings and ensure full compliance within 6 months
  • Submit annual compliance reports within 30 days of each financial year end

Important Dates

  • Within 1 month: Submit digital platform list and initial compliance report
  • Within 45 days: Appoint certified accessibility auditor
  • Within 3 months: Complete accessibility audit
  • Within 6 months: Complete remediation and full compliance
  • Ongoing: Annual reporting within 30 days of financial year end
  • Effective Date: Immediate from July 31, 2025

Impact Assessment

High Impact: This circular affects all SEBI regulated entities including stockbrokers, mutual funds, depositories, clearing corporations, investment advisors, and market infrastructure institutions. Entities must invest in accessibility upgrades, professional audits, and ongoing compliance monitoring. Non-compliance could result in regulatory action and exclusion of disabled investors from digital services.

Impact Justification

Affects all SEBI regulated entities with mandatory compliance timelines and ongoing reporting requirements