SEBI Extends Timelines For Digital Accessibility Compliance

Circular No. SEBI/HO/ITD-1/ITD_VIAP/P/CIR/2025/121

1. Introduction

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has announced an extension of timelines for compliance with its circular dated 31 July 2025 on Digital Accessibility issued under the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. The circular mandates regulated entities (REs) to ensure that their digital platforms are accessible to persons with disabilities, thereby promoting inclusivity and equal access in the securities market.

2. Revised Compliance Deadlines

As per the revised schedule, REs are now required to submit their compliance/action taken reports along with the list of digital platforms by 30 September 2025. Further, the appointment of IAAP-certified accessibility professionals must be completed by 14 December 2025. The accessibility audit is to be carried out by 30 April 2026, and remediation of identified issues must be completed by 31 July 2026. Additionally, the timeline for the annual accessibility audit compliance has been shifted to 30 April 2027.

3. Audit and Remediation Requirements

SEBI has emphasised that REs must conduct a comprehensive digital accessibility audit covering all investor-facing platforms to identify barriers faced by persons with disabilities. Following the audit, entities are obligated to take corrective measures and ensure timely remediation of non-compliant features. The involvement of IAAP-certified professionals is aimed at ensuring high-quality evaluations aligned with international standards.

4. Change in Reporting Authority

In addition to extending timelines, SEBI has also revised the reporting framework for certain intermediaries. For Investment Advisers (IAs) and Research Analysts (RAs), the reporting authority has now been shifted from BASL and SEBI respectively to BSE Ltd. This change is expected to streamline compliance monitoring and enhance accountability by consolidating oversight responsibilities under one authority.

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