The Delhi High Court on Wednesday issued notices to Swiggy and Zepto in response to a plea alleging their mobile apps are not accessible to users with visual disabilities.
Justice Sachin Datta also sought a response from the central government and directed all parties to reply within four weeks.
The petition, filed by NGO Mission Accessibility, argues that the two platforms fail to comply with accessibility standards mandated under Indian law, particularly for screen-reader compatibility, crucial for visually impaired users to navigate digital services independently.
Petition Highlights Gaps In Compliance
Appearing on behalf of the NGO, accessibility rights advocate Amar Jain pointed out that the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act and associated rules require platforms to implement accessibility features by 2019. However, both apps allegedly lack essential elements like accessible search functions and interactive features.
“The inaccessibility of these apps creates serious barriers for the visually impaired and amounts to a violation of their fundamental rights,” the plea states.
Allegation Of Discrimination
The petition goes further to accuse Swiggy and Zepto of effectively denying persons with disabilities equal access to vital services such as food delivery and grocery shopping. It also criticizes regulatory authorities for failing to enforce accessibility norms, calling their inaction a contributing factor to continued digital exclusion.
Court will hear the matter next on May 28, by which time all parties are expected to submit their responses.
The case could set an important precedent for inclusive digital infrastructure and the enforcement of accessibility laws in India.
Read More: Supreme Court, Delhi High Court, States High Court, International
