Pragya Prasun & Ors v. Union of India - Digital KYC Accessibility

Pragya Prasun and others filed Writ Petitions in the Supreme Court of India (WP(C) No. 289 of 2024 and WP(C) No. 49 of 2025) challenging digital KYC (Know Your Customer) and e-KYC processes that exclude persons with disabilities. The petitioners included: - Acid attack survivors who have experienced difficulties completing digital KYC/e-KYC processes due to their inability to click a "live photograph" by blinking, which prevented them from opening bank accounts and purchasing SIM cards from telecom providers - An individual suffering from 100% blindness who faces daily challenges in establishing account-based relationships, conducting transactions, availing services, and verifying identity due to inaccessible digital KYC processes The petitioners argued that digital KYC/e-KYC/video KYC norms are not designed keeping in view the accessibility needs of persons with disabilities. The digital KYC process that excludes persons with disabilities violates the fundamental rights enshrined under Article 21 of the Constitution of India, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty. The case was resolved in April 2025, with the Supreme Court directing the government and financial institutions to make digital KYC processes accessible to persons with disabilities. This case highlights the critical importance of ensuring that digital identity verification systems are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. This case is particularly significant as it addresses the intersection of digital accessibility and financial inclusion, ensuring that persons with disabilities can access essential services like banking and telecommunications.