SEBI Directs Financial Entities to Ensure Digital Accessibility for PwDs

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has issued a directive to all regulated entities (REs)—including mutual funds, portfolio management services (PMS), alternative investment funds (AIFs), and registered investment advisors (RIAs)—to make their digital platforms fully accessible to persons with disabilities (PwDs).

This move follows a landmark Supreme Court judgment that recognised digital access as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution. With this directive, digital inclusion becomes a legal and regulatory obligation in India’s financial ecosystem.

What Financial Entities Must Do Now

Fund houses and other REs will be required to ensure their websites and mobile applications support seamless access for differently abled users. Key mandates include:

1. Digital KYC & Client Onboarding

• Provide alternative onboarding options like voice-assisted KYC, human-aided video KYC, and document upload support for visually impaired users.

2. Accessible Design Standards

• Integrate features such as:
• Screen reader compatibility
• Indian Sign Language (ISL) videos
• Closed captions
• Alt text for images

3. Content Compliance

• All documents must be published in machine-readable formats to enable access through assistive technologies.

4. Annual Accessibility Audits

• Entities must appoint certified accessibility auditors and conduct annual reviews to maintain compliance.

5. Grievance Redressal and Oversight

• Appoint a dedicated Accessibility Officer.
• Establish a PwD-friendly grievance cell to handle accessibility-related complaints.

Timeline for Compliance

SEBI’s circular outlines a strict timeline for implementation:

Reporting Authorities Based on Entity Type

The reporting structure will vary based on the type of regulated entity:

• Stock brokers and depository participants (DPs): Report to respective stock exchanges or depositories
• Investment Advisors (RIAs): Report to BSE Administration and Supervision Limited (BASL)
• Other REs (including MFs, AIFs, insurers): Report directly to SEBI

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Conclusion

This initiative marks a major shift in the regulatory landscape. Accessibility is no longer just a social responsibility—it is a compliance mandate tied directly to investor rights. By setting clear standards and timelines, SEBI is working to ensure that every investor, regardless of physical ability, has equal access to the financial services ecosystem.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities or companies mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation or investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in securities are subject to market risks. Read all related documents carefully before investing.