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On April 30, the Supreme Court ordered changes to digital KYC norms to make them accessible for persons with disabilities (PwDs).
It said that the right to digital access is part of the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.
What Laws Safeguard Rights of PwD?
The Constitution and Indian laws require equal access and rights for PwDs.
The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 defines disability as not just a health issue but as a result of social and environmental barriers.
Section 42 of the Act says the government must make media and electronic systems accessible using tools like sign language, captions, and universal design.
Are KYC Details Mandatory?
KYC (Know Your Customer) is legally required to prevent financial crimes.
It is used to access banking, telecom, government benefits, and more.
The RBI’s rules allow for video-based verification where users must perform actions like reading codes, signing, or taking selfies — often within short time limits.
How Does It Affect PwDs?
Blind users or people with facial injuries can’t complete current video-KYC steps.
Many KYC apps lack features like screen readers or voice instructions, making them unusable for some PwDs.
Thumb impressions are not accepted, and Aadhaar biometrics are also not accessible.
PwDs often get rejected or are forced to visit in person, defeating the purpose of digital inclusion.
How Has the SC Intervened?
The SC says accessibility is a constitutional right linked to dignity and freedom.
In past rulings, it stressed that digital systems (like vaccination portals) must be accessible.
In this case, the Court ruled that current digital KYC systems violate the rights of PwDs.
It ordered changes to ensure accessibility is at the center of all digital services.
The Court also pointed out that digital access is crucial for not just PwDs, but also rural users, the elderly, and the poor.
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