SEBI Extends Digital Accessibility Compliance Deadline for Regulated Entities to January 31

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has extended the deadline for regulated entities to complete key digital accessibility compliance requirements to January 31 next year. The decision follows requests and representations received from market participants seeking more time to meet the norms.

According to a circular issued by SEBI on October 30, the extension applies to the appointment of an International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP) auditor, conducting accessibility audits of digital platforms, and the remediation of findings identified during these audits.

The compliance mandates originate from SEBI's earlier circulars regarding mandatory adherence to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and the corresponding rules established under the legislation by all regulated entities.

SEBI noted that it decided to grant the extension after reviewing the progress made by regulated entities in implementing the required changes. The circular builds upon five previous communications issued by the regulator across July, August, September, and December, as well as a communication on July 31.

Despite granting the timeline extension, the market regulator clarified that all other provisions outlined in the previous circulars will remain unchanged and must be strictly adhered to by the regulated entities.

The regulatory directive was issued under SEBI's mandate to protect the interests of investors, promote the orderly development of the securities market, and ensure proper regulation of the sector.

"Regulatory compliance is a critical operational pillar for all entities operating within the financial ecosystem. SEBI's decision to extend the deadline for digital accessibility audits demonstrates a pragmatic approach toward industry realities while maintaining the overarching objective of inclusivity and investor protection. Regulated entities should utilize this extended timeline efficiently to complete their IAAP auditor appointments, finish platform audits, and execute necessary remediations without further delays." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes