India: Guidelines for accessibility of content on platforms of publishers of online curated content enter into force

On 6 February 2029, the guidelines for accessibility of content on platforms of publishers of online curated content (OTT Platforms) for persons with hearing and visual impairment enter into force. The guidelines stipulate accessibility standards for audio-visual content in accordance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. Publishers are required to ensure that all newly published content includes at least one accessibility feature for each of the visually and hearing-impaired user groups, such as closed or open captioning, Indian Sign Language interpretation, or audio description. Platforms must also ensure that user interfaces are compatible with assistive technologies and that accessible content is clearly identified through accessibility indicators. Publishers are obligated to submit an Accessibility Conformance Report. Exemptions are applicable to live and deferred live content, audio-only content such as music or podcasts, and standalone short-form content of 10 minutes or less. The oversight of compliance is facilitated by a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism involving publishers, self-regulating bodies, and a Monitoring Committee established by the Ministry.