India Ministry of Social Justice Issues Draft Accessibility Rules to Boost Digital Inclusion

Ministry of Social Justice released a draft set of accessibility rules for 2026 aimed at guiding technology firms on inclusive design and digital services, covering websites, mobile applications and emerging technologies, and proposing compliance timelines for each sector.

Draft RPwD Amendment outlines a new conformance regime, urging companies to adopt recognized accessibility standards, conduct periodic audits, and publish public compliance statements, as detailed in an analysis by IndiaLaw LLP.

Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities posted the draft on its “What’s New” portal, providing the full document for download, a comment submission form, and a schedule for public hearings to gather stakeholder input.

India Forum commentary warns that despite the promise of stronger rules, a gap remains between policy intent and practical enforcement, urging the creation of an independent monitoring body and clear penalties to ensure compliance.