MIB gives movie ticketing platforms 7 days to roll out accessibility disclosures

In a move aimed at making cinema more inclusive for persons with disabilities, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has directed all major online movie ticketing platforms and ticket aggregators to introduce a mechanism that allows users to check the availability of accessibility features in films before booking tickets.

The advisory, issued on July 9, follows directions from the Delhi High Court in through an order dated February 19, 2026. The court had underscored the need to improve accessibility in cinema exhibition for persons with disabilities, prompting the ministry to issue implementation guidelines for digital ticketing platforms.

Under the advisory, online ticketing platforms have been asked to develop and implement an independent mechanism across their websites and mobile applications that enables users to determine whether a particular film is available with accessibility features before completing their ticket purchase.

The ministry said the objective is to facilitate informed decision-making for persons with disabilities by ensuring that relevant accessibility information is available at the point of booking.

Platforms to display accessibility information prominently

According to the advisory, the booking interface should prominently display the availability of accessibility features such as Audio Description (AD), Closed Captions (CC), Same Language Captioning (SLC), Indian Sign Language (ISL) and any other accessibility support offered with the film.

In cases where these features are delivered through external applications or digital platforms rather than being integrated into the cinema screening itself, ticketing platforms have also been asked to specify the name of the application or platform through which viewers can access these services.

The ministry said the information should be presented in a "clear, accurate and easily identifiable manner" on the booking interface, enabling users with disabilities to make informed choices before purchasing tickets.

Seven-day implementation timeline

The advisory gives ticketing platforms a seven-day deadline to implement the mechanism, describing the measure as an important step towards enhancing accessibility and promoting ease of access for persons with disabilities.

The directive has been issued to all major online movie ticketing platforms and ticket aggregators, while a copy has also been forwarded to the Chief Executive Officer of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) for necessary action.

Push towards inclusive entertainment

The latest advisory reflects the government's broader efforts to improve accessibility across digital and public services. While several filmmakers and OTT platforms have increasingly introduced accessibility features such as subtitles, audio descriptions and sign language support, information regarding their availability has often remained fragmented or unavailable at the ticket-booking stage for theatrical releases.

By requiring ticketing platforms to disclose these details upfront, the ministry aims to bridge this information gap and make cinema-going a more inclusive experience for persons with disabilities. The move is also expected to encourage wider adoption of accessibility standards across the film exhibition ecosystem as stakeholders align with evolving regulatory and judicial expectations.