Brief Overview
In a significant move, the Delhi High Court has made headlines by ordering Rapido, the ride-hailing app, to undergo an accessibility audit. This follows a case filed by Amar Jain and Dipto Ghosh Choudhury, two visually impaired individuals, represented by advocate Rahul Bajaj. The case highlighted the inaccessibility of Rapido’s mobile app for users with disabilities. As per the court’s directive, Rapido is required to submit an accessibility audit report within three months, conducted by an authorized auditor.
This ruling is a major step forward for digital accessibility in India and strengthens the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. As experts in accessibility, we see this as a positive reminder for businesses that inclusive design is no longer a choice. It’s a legal requirement!
Key points from the court’s decision:
- Commitment to Accessibility: Rapido has acknowledged its current gaps in accessibility and is committed to upgrading its app within 6-8 months to meet accessibility standards.
- Training Programs: The company will introduce training programs for its staff and drivers to ensure accessible services are provided for users with disabilities.
- Ongoing Compliance: Rapido is required to submit a compliance report along with the accessibility audit, showing the steps taken to improve accessibility.
- Feedback System: A dedicated feedback mechanism will be set up to address concerns raised by people with disabilities.
Time for Indian Businesses to Act
With the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPWD), 2016, and the enforcement of IS-17802 which mandates accessible ICT products and services, Indian businesses can no longer afford to ignore accessibility. Not just public entities but private business too, must ensure that their products and services are accessible to people with disabilities. The Rapido ruling gives out a critical message that accessibility is a legal obligation and cannot be an afterthought. Indian businesses need to recognize that compliance with accessibility standards is mandatory, and failure to comply will result in legal consequences.
Key Takeaways
This ruling doesn’t just highlight the legal obligations of private companies but also serves as a wake-up call to businesses across industries. Accessibility is crucial for ensuring inclusivity and avoiding legal risks. As accessibility experts, we assist you with your web, product and mobile app audits ensuring you comply to accessibility standards and ensure your digital platforms are accessible to all.
Let’s co-create an accessibility roadmap to build an inclusive experience for everyone. Contact us at sales@barrierbreak.com today to learn how we can support your accessibility goals!