In short: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has extended the deadline for market entities to comply with digital accessibility standards until January 31, 2027. This extension provides more time for firms to audit their digital platforms and fix accessibility gaps for persons with disabilities.

New Timeline for Compliance

In a circular issued on October 30, 2026, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) announced an extension for regulated entities to meet specific digital accessibility requirements. These entities now have until January 31, 2027, to complete the following tasks:

  • Appointing an IAAP Auditor: Entities must appoint an auditor certified by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals.
  • Conducting Accessibility Audits: A thorough check of all digital platforms must be performed to ensure they are accessible.
  • Remediation: Any findings or accessibility barriers identified during the audit must be fixed or resolved.

This decision follows several previous communications from the regulator. SEBI had earlier issued circulars regarding these requirements on July 31, August 29, September 25, and December 8 in 2025, as well as on July 31, 2026. While the deadline for these specific audit-related tasks has moved, SEBI clarified that all other provisions mentioned in the earlier circulars remain unchanged and must be followed by the regulated firms.

Why was the deadline extended?

The regulator decided to push back the date after receiving multiple representations from regulated entities. These market participants requested more time to submit their compliance status. After reviewing the current progress and the status of compliance across the industry, SEBI granted the extension to ensure that all entities can effectively meet the standards.

Who is affected by this circular?

The extension applies to a wide range of organisations that operate within the Indian securities market. Under the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992, the regulator has the authority to issue such directions to various market participants. The entities expected to comply include:

  • All recognised Stock Exchanges and Clearing Corporations.
  • All registered Depositories and Intermediaries.
  • The Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) and the Association of Portfolio Managers in India (APMI).
  • BSE Limited in its capacity as the administration and supervisory body for Investment Advisers (IAASB) and Research Analysts (RAASB).

Legal Context and Digital Rights

These requirements are rooted in the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and the rules associated with it.

This section allows the regulator to take measures necessary for protecting investor interests and developing the securities market.

Frequently asked questions

What is the new deadline for digital accessibility compliance?

The new deadline for regulated entities to appoint an IAAP auditor, conduct accessibility audits, and complete the remediation of findings is January 31, 2027.

Which entities must follow these SEBI circulars?

The rules apply to all SEBI-regulated entities, including stock exchanges, clearing corporations, depositories, mutual fund associations, portfolio manager associations, and various registered intermediaries.

What happens to the other provisions in the previous SEBI circulars?

SEBI has stated that all other provisions from the previous circulars issued in 2025 and 2026 remain unchanged and must be complied with as originally directed.

Sources

Not legal advice. This page explains the law in general terms. Rules, fees and limits change, and your facts matter. Check the official source or consult a qualified advocate before acting. Disclaimer