Delhi High Court Mandates Enhanced Accessibility Measures for Visually Impaired in Banking Services

RBI Directed to Implement Recommendations for Currency Notes and Digital Platforms

In a landmark decision, the Delhi High Court has directed the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to implement comprehensive measures to enhance accessibility for visually impaired individuals in accessing banking services and identifying currency notes. The judgment, delivered by a bench comprising Chief Justice Devender Kumar Upadhyay and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, was in response to a series of Public Interest Litigations (PILs) filed to address the grievances faced by visually impaired persons regarding banking accessibility.

The court has mandated the RBI to act on the recommendations provided by a High Powered Committee, constituted to address these issues. The committee's suggestions include phased replacement of currency notes to improve tactile features and enhancing digital accessibility on banking platforms. The RBI is tasked with obtaining six-monthly progress reports from banks to ensure compliance and implementation of these recommendations.

The judgment underscores the importance of aligning the facilitation of currency notes, particularly the Rs.50/- denomination, with the identification needs of visually impaired persons. While acknowledging the technical and financial challenges involved in redesigning currency notes, the court emphasized the necessity of incorporating the committee's suggestions in future currency designs and policies.

The court also addressed the introduction of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), advising the RBI to ensure accessibility compliance before its final launch. Union Bank of India has reportedly made significant strides in making its CBDC application accessible.

This decision marks a significant advancement in the rights of persons with disabilities, aligning with the objectives of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. The court observed that addressing the concerns of vulnerable citizens is crucial and falls within the realm of policy-making by the Government of India and the RBI.

The judgment further reflects the judiciary's proactive stance in safeguarding the rights of the specially-abled, urging the RBI and the Government of India to prioritize accessibility in their policy frameworks.

Bottom Line:

Accessibility for visually impaired persons in banking and currency - High Powered Committee constituted to address issues faced by visually impaired persons in accessing banking services and identifying currency notes. 

Statutory provision(s): Constitution of India, 1950 - Article 226, Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016

Rohit Dandriyal v. Reserve Bank of India, (Delhi)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2783386