Description

SEBI requires all regulated entities to comply with Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 for their digital platforms with specific implementation milestones.

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. The circular establishes specific implementation timelines and requires appointment of certified accessibility professionals for auditing.

Key Points

  • All SEBI regulated entities must comply with RPwD Act, 2016 provisions for digital accessibility
  • Compliance covers stockbrokers, mutual funds, exchanges, depositories, clearing corporations, and other intermediaries
  • Mandatory appointment of IAAP certified accessibility professionals as auditors
  • Phased implementation with specific milestones over 6 months
  • Annual compliance reporting required within 30 days of financial year end

Regulatory Changes

  • Digital platforms of all regulated entities must comply with Sections 40, 42, and 46 of RPwD Act, 2016
  • Rule 15(1)(c) of Rights of Persons with Disabilities Rules, 2017 compliance mandatory
  • Introduction of accessibility audit requirements by certified professionals
  • Establishment of structured reporting mechanism through designated authorities

Compliance Requirements

  • Submit list of digital platforms within 1 month
  • Submit compliance/action taken report within 1 month
  • Appoint IAAP certified accessibility professionals within 45 days
  • Conduct accessibility audit within 3 months
  • Complete remediation and ensure full compliance within 6 months
  • Annual compliance reporting to designated authorities

Important Dates

  • Within 1 month: Submit digital platforms list and compliance report
  • Within 45 days: Appoint certified accessibility auditors
  • Within 3 months: Complete accessibility audit
  • Within 6 months: Complete remediation and full compliance
  • Annual reporting: Within 30 days of each financial year end

Impact Assessment

This circular significantly impacts all SEBI regulated entities by requiring substantial investment in digital accessibility infrastructure. Entities must allocate resources for certified auditors, platform modifications, and ongoing compliance monitoring. The mandatory nature and strict timelines indicate SEBI’s serious commitment to inclusive market access, potentially affecting operational costs and system development priorities across the securities market ecosystem.

Impact Justification

Mandatory compliance affecting all SEBI regulated entities with strict timelines and accessibility requirements