The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), through its latest circular dated August 29, 2025, has announced crucial extensions in compliance timelines and updates to the reporting authority for Investment Advisers (IAs) and Research Analysts (RAs) in relation to its earlier circular on Digital Accessibility.
This move comes in response to multiple representations received from Regulated Entities (REs), citing the need for more time to meet the mandates set under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and the related SEBI circular issued on July 31, 2025.
Key Highlights of the Circular
- Extension of Timelines
SEBI has provided significant relaxation in deadlines for various digital accessibility-related compliance requirements. Here’s a summary of the updated timelines:
- Submission of compliance/action taken report Aug 30, 2025 Sept 30, 2025
- Submission of list of digital platforms used for investors Aug 30, 2025 Sept 30, 2025
- Appointment of IAAP-certified accessibility auditor Sept 14, 2025 Dec 14, 2025
- Conduct of digital platform accessibility audit Oct 31, 2025 April 30, 2026
- Remediation of audit findings Jan 31, 2026 July 31, 2026
- Annual audit compliance and final report submission April 30, 2026 April 30, 2027
Implications for Regulated Entities
The extended deadlines provide much-needed breathing room for REs to:
- Evaluate and audit their digital infrastructure.
- Appoint certified accessibility professionals.
- Implement necessary digital accessibility improvements.
- Submit final compliance reports.
Moreover, with BSE Ltd. becoming the nodal authority for IAs and RAs, stakeholders can expect a more uniform compliance and reporting mechanism.
Conclusion
SEBI’s proactive step to extend compliance timelines and redefine reporting responsibilities is a welcome move, especially considering the wide-scale changes required for full digital accessibility. This initiative is part of SEBI’s broader commitment to ensuring that India’s capital markets are inclusive, accessible, and compliant with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
REs should use this extension wisely to align with the accessibility mandates and enhance their digital platforms for all users, including persons with disabilities.