SEBI Mandates Inclusive Digital KYC for Persons with Disabilities Following Supreme Court Directive [Read Circular]
SEBI mandates inclusive digital KYC to ensure equal financial access for persons with disabilities, following a Supreme Court directive
![SEBI Mandates Inclusive Digital KYC for Persons with Disabilities Following Supreme Court Directive [Read Circular]](https://www.taxscan.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/SEBI-Digital-KYC-Supreme-Court-Directive-taxscan.jpg "SEBI Mandates Inclusive Digital KYC for Persons with Disabilities Following Supreme Court Directive [Read Circular]")
The Securities and Exchange Board of India ( SEBI ) issued a circular on May 23, 2025, explaining the need for accessibility in digital Know Your Customer ( KYC ) processes for persons with disabilities ( PwDs ). This directive aligns with a Supreme Court judgment dated April 30, 2025, which stressed the importance of ensuring equal access to financial services for all, including those...
The Securities and Exchange Board of India ( SEBI ) issued a circular on May 23, 2025, explaining the need for accessibility in digital Know Your Customer ( KYC ) processes for persons with disabilities ( PwDs ). This directive aligns with a Supreme Court judgment dated April 30, 2025, which stressed the importance of ensuring equal access to financial services for all, including those with disabilities.
Background
The Supreme Court's ruling acknowledged the systemic barriers faced by PwDs, particularly in accessing digital financial services. The Court directed regulatory bodies to implement reforms to ensure inclusivity and accessibility across platforms, especially in essential services like banking and investing.
SEBI's Response
SEBI reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity by mandating all intermediaries such as brokers, stock exchanges, and mutual fund houses to ensure their digital KYC procedures are accessible to PwDs. This includes, but is not limited to, people with visual impairments.
A key component of SEBI's action is the revision of the "FAQ on Account Opening by Persons with Disabilities," which now includes updated guidance on digital KYC processes tailored for accessibility. This document can be found under the "Know Your Client Requirements" section on SEBI's official website.
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Key Highlights of the Circular
- Mandatory Accessibility: All registered intermediaries must ensure their digital platforms support accessible account opening processes.
- Reference Guide: The revised FAQ serves as a guiding document to help intermediaries implement inclusive practices effectively.
- Compliance and Oversight: The directive is issued under the authority granted by Section 11(1) of the SEBI Act, 1992, and is binding on all SEBI-registered entities.
For detailed guidelines and implementation practices, stakeholders are encouraged to review the circular and the accompanying FAQ available on SEBI’s website.
To Read the full text of the Circular CLICK HERE
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