Court mandates compliance with IS 17802 standards, ensuring digital accessibility on ZEE5 platform for persons with disabilities.
The Delhi High Court, in a significant ruling dated July 2, 2026, addressed the accessibility challenges faced by persons with disabilities on digital platforms. In the case of Rahul Bajaj v. Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited, the court emphasized the need for digital inclusivity, directing Zee Entertainment to ensure their ZEE5 platform complies with the Indian Standard IS 17802, which pertains to accessibility standards for digital products and services.
Presided over by Justice Dr. Swarana Kanta Sharma, the court responded to a petition filed by Rahul Bajaj, who underscored the barriers encountered by disabled users on the ZEE5 platform, which spans mobile applications, websites, smart TV applications, and desktop software. The petition called for a comprehensive audit and subsequent compliance to facilitate independent usability through assistive technologies like screen readers.
Key directives included the submission of a detailed accessibility audit report by a government-empanelled auditor, identification of existing barriers, and ensuring the platform's operability through screen-reader technologies within a time-bound schedule. Furthermore, Zee Entertainment is required to maintain ongoing accessibility across the platform's lifespan, display an Accessibility Conformance Report, and conduct mandatory training for its developers and customer support teams on accessibility standards.
The court issued notices to the respondents, with senior panel counsel Mr. Neeraj Dubey accepting notice on behalf of respondents 2 and 3, and seeking time to file a counter affidavit. The court highlighted the absence of representation from Zee Entertainment, urging prompt action to rectify the compliance gaps.
The bench has mandated that the ZEE5 platform align with the BIS Standard IS 17802:2022, covering both requirements and conformance for ICT products and services, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access digital content independently.
The court has scheduled further proceedings for September 17, 2026, and has instructed that the order be uploaded on the court's website immediately, underscoring the urgency and importance of the matter.
Bottom line:-
Rights of persons with disabilities - Online platforms must comply with accessibility standards, including Indian Standard IS 17802, ensuring independent usability through assistive technologies like screen readers.
Statutory provision(s): Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 Sections 89 and 90, Indian Standard IS 17802
Rahul Bajaj v. Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited, (Delhi) : Law Finder Doc id # 2934526
