The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) issued a crucial circular on July 31, 2025 (Circular No. SEBI/HO/ITD-1/ITD_VIAP/P/CIR/2025/111), mandating all Regulated Entities (REs) to ensure compliance with digital accessibility requirements under The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 and the rules framed thereunder. This step reinforced SEBI’s commitment to making digital platforms inclusive and accessible to persons with disabilities in alignment with Indian laws and global accessibility best practices.
Following the release of this circular, SEBI received numerous representations from Regulated Entities, including Investment Advisers (IAs) and Research Analysts (RAs), requesting an extension of the original compliance timelines. Many REs highlighted the complexities involved in upgrading their existing digital platforms to meet accessibility standards, especially in aligning with IS 17802:2022 (Indian Accessibility Standard for ICT Products & Services). This standard defines accessibility requirements for digital systems, ensuring equitable access to information and services for all users, including those with disabilities.
Taking these representations into account, SEBI has now granted an extension of timelines for IAs and RAs to submit their compliance reports. The circular also specifies updates regarding the reporting authority for these submissions, streamlining the process and ensuring greater accountability. This move reflects SEBI’s balanced approach—safeguarding investor interests while providing regulated entities adequate time to make the necessary changes.
The circular has been issued under Section 11(1) of the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992, which empowers SEBI to protect investor interests, promote market development, and regulate the securities market. By mandating digital accessibility compliance, SEBI is not only enforcing legal obligations under the RPwD Act, 2016 but also fostering inclusivity within India’s financial ecosystem.
For regulated entities, this extension serves as an opportunity to strengthen their digital platforms and align with recognized accessibility frameworks such as IS 17802:2022. Compliance is not just a statutory requirement—it is also a strategic step toward enhancing user experience, building trust, and broadening market reach by catering to a diverse investor base.
At Accessible Minds, we are well-positioned to assist organizations in this journey. As an empanelled Web Accessibility Auditor, we conduct comprehensive audits to evaluate digital platforms against IS 17802:2022 standards. Our team also includes certified professionals, making us a trusted accessibility auditor with IAAP (International Association of Accessibility Professionals) credentials. Beyond auditing, we act as an empanelled accessibility service provider, helping regulated entities implement remediation strategies that ensure full compliance while creating inclusive user experiences for investors with disabilities.
The updated circular is available on SEBI’s official website (www.sebi.gov.in) under the “Legal” section, categorized under “Circulars.” Regulated Entities are advised to review the details carefully and take timely measures to ensure full compliance within the extended deadlines.
