SEBI Urges for Easy Access to Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)

• 04 Aug 2025
• 461 Views

Market regulator SEBI has mandated all stock brokers, depository institutions, exchanges, mutual funds and other market intermediaries to make their digital platforms accessible to persons with disabilities (PwDs). This directive comes after the Supreme Court April 2025 ruling, which regarded digital access as a fundamental right under the Right to Life and Personal Liberty. SEBI circular notified on 31 July 2025 works towards protecting investor rights and ensuring equal participation in the securities market for disabled individuals.

The SEBI-regulated entities must abide by the global and Indian accessibility standards like WCAG 2.1, Indian Government Websites’ Guidelines and IS 17802 standards for ICT products. This is necessary to comply with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016. In addition to this, digital platforms require features such as Indian Sign Language videos, captions, alternative text for images and accessible PDFs and descriptive audio among others.

For compliance, the market regulator has set forth strict timelines. This includes a full accessibility audit within a 3 months period and addressing any gaps within a period of 6 months. These measures by SEBI will ensure that all the investors, regardless of their abilities, will be able to engage with the market in an efficient manner, without any hurdles.

Apart from above-mentioned requirements, SEBI also requires appointment of a nodal officer for digital accessibility at firms to take care of grievances. For investors who face challenges related to accessibility, a clear redressal mechanism with an escalation option must be established. These regulations apply to new software, websites, and mobile applications that are developed or purchased by these entities.

Moreover, SEBI has set timelines for firms to file compliance reports and organize annual audits to ensure adherence to the accessibility norms. The approach of SEBI not only protects the interests of investors but also encourages a more inclusive financial ecosystem that boosts greater trust and participation in the securities market.

News: MSN News