SEBI Extends Digital Accessibility Audit and Remediation Deadline to October 31, 2026 for Regulated Entities

Overview

The Securities and Exchange Board of India issued Circular No. H0/(411)2026-1TD-5_D1V2/1/17922/2026 on July 31, 2026, formally extending the compliance timeline applicable to Regulated Entities (REs) under the Digital Accessibility framework. This extension specifically covers the conduct of accessibility audits for digital platforms and the subsequent remediation of audit findings, pushing the revised deadline to October 31, 2026.

The move comes in response to formal representations submitted by various Regulated Entities who sought additional time to fulfil the requirements laid down under earlier circulars. SEBI, after reviewing the prevailing compliance status across these entities, decided to grant the requested relief in a calibrated manner—extending only specific obligations while keeping all remaining provisions intact and enforceable.

Legal Authority and Statutory Basis

This circular has been issued in the exercise of powers vested under Section 11(1) of the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992, which empowers SEBI to:

• Protect the interests of investors in securities markets
• Promote the development of, and regulate, the securities market

The circular was issued with the approval of the Competent Authority, lending it full regulatory force and mandating compliance by all addressed entities.

Background: The Digital Accessibility Framework

Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016

SEBI had previously issued a series of circulars mandating compliance by all Regulated Entities with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and the rules framed thereunder. These circulars laid down detailed obligations requiring REs to make their digital platforms accessible to persons with disabilities—a measure aimed at promoting inclusive participation in the securities market.

Reference Circulars

The current circular is a follow-up to four prior circulars that established the digital accessibility compliance obligations: