Delhi High Court Directs RBI on Inclusive Currency for Visually Impaired

On September 25, 2025, the Delhi High Court underscored the importance of financial inclusion for the visually impaired, urging the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Union Government to ensure future currency designs and digital banking systems incorporate accessible features. The decision came while ruling on a batch of petitions filed by individuals and disability rights groups.

Court Stresses Inclusive Currency Without Immediate Redesign

Chief Justice Devender Kumar Upadhyay and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela noted that post-demonetisation notes, especially lower denominations, have limited size variation, making them harder to distinguish by touch. While the Court refrained from ordering an immediate recall or redesign, it directed authorities to consider accessibility in future currency printings. It also highlighted recommendations by a High-Powered Committee, which proposed tactile enhancements and phased replacement strategies.

Digital Accessibility and Regulatory Oversight

The Court instructed the RBI to collect reports from banks every 6 months to ensure digital platforms meet accessibility norms. Under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act,2016, it affirmed that public institutions must proactively eliminate systemic barriers. The Court maintained that while decisions on currency and digital policy rest with the RBI and government, they must anticipate the needs of persons with disabilities in policy formulation.

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Future Currency Design and Fiscal Constraints

On the specific demand for redesigning the ₹50 note, the Court accepted RBI’s submission that such action would lead to massive costs, possibly in thousands of crores, and disrupt the financial ecosystem. However, it emphasised that future currency issues, typically scheduled every 8 to 10 years, must incorporate feasible recommendations from expert panels focused on accessibility.

Conclusion

In disposing of the petitions, the Delhi High Court called for inclusive design in future currency and digital financial systems. While acknowledging economic limitations, it highlighted the legal and moral duty of public institutions to foster accessibility for all, especially vulnerable groups like the visually impaired.

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