Description

SEBI extends compliance timelines for digital accessibility requirements under Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and updates reporting authorities for Investment Advisors and Research Analysts.

Summary

SEBI has granted extensions to compliance timelines for digital accessibility requirements under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. The circular extends various deadlines by 1-6 months and updates reporting authorities, with BSE Ltd. now handling compliance reporting for both Investment Advisors and Research Analysts.

Key Points

  • Timeline extensions granted based on representations from Regulated Entities
  • Compliance report submission extended by 1 month to September 30, 2025
  • Digital platforms list submission extended by 1 month to September 30, 2025
  • IAAP certified accessibility professional appointment extended by 3 months to December 14, 2025
  • Accessibility audit conduct extended by 6 months to April 30, 2026
  • Remediation of audit findings extended by 6 months to July 31, 2026
  • Annual compliance reporting moved to next financial year (April 30, 2027)

Regulatory Changes

  • Reporting authority for Investment Advisors changed from BASL to BSE Ltd.
  • Reporting authority for Research Analysts changed from SEBI to BSE Ltd.
  • Stock Brokers/Depository Participants continue reporting to Stock Exchanges/Depositories
  • MIIs and other Regulated Entities continue reporting to SEBI

Compliance Requirements

  • Submit compliance/action report pertaining to circular clauses
  • Provide list of digital platforms offered to investors
  • Appoint IAAP certified accessibility professionals as auditors
  • Conduct accessibility audits for digital platforms
  • Remediate audit findings ensuring circular compliance
  • Submit annual accessibility audit reports to designated authorities

Important Dates

  • September 30, 2025: Compliance report and digital platforms list submission
  • December 14, 2025: IAAP certified accessibility professional appointment
  • April 30, 2026: Accessibility audit completion
  • July 31, 2026: Remediation of audit findings completion
  • April 30, 2027: First annual compliance report due

Impact Assessment

The timeline extensions provide regulated entities with additional time to implement digital accessibility compliance measures. This reduces immediate compliance pressure while maintaining the mandatory nature of accessibility requirements for persons with disabilities. The centralization of IA and RA reporting under BSE Ltd. streamlines the compliance process.

Impact Justification

Extended compliance timelines provide relief to regulated entities while maintaining mandatory accessibility requirements