How to Lodge a Complaint to SEBI?

In case of any grievances related to the Indian security market, you may approach SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India). SEBI addresses issues and obstacles involving listed companies, registered intermediaries, and market infrastructure institutions. They investigate complaints related to activities covered under the SEBI Act, 1992; the Securities Contract Regulation Act, 1956; the Depositories Act, 1996; and the corresponding rules and regulations. 

SCORES is an internet-based complaint redressal system of SEBI. You can lodge your grievance against a listed company, an intermediary, or a market infrastructure institution with SEBI through this platform. SEBI also provides an FAQ section on their website that outlines the types of complaints they do not accept.  

When you file a complaint, SEBI will check if you have already tried contacting the company regarding the issue. If you answer "No," your complaint will first be sent to the company, which has 21 calendar days to respond. If you answer "Yes," your complaint will go directly to SEBI. 

The generally required documents for lodging a complaint with SCORES are: 

> Copies of agreements 

> Application forms 

> Bank statements 

> Contract notes 

> Emails, faxes, and other correspondence 
 

Let us now have a look at a simple guide on how to file a complaint using the SEBI SCORES Portal: 

Step 1: Go to the SEBI website or directly to SCORES. If you're new, register by providing your date of birth and PAN. Your details will be auto fetched. 

Step 2: Log in with your user ID once registered. 

Step 3: After logging in, find the "Lodge a Complaint" section. Select the entity you're filing against, such as a listed company, stockbroker, or mutual fund. 

Step 4: Choose the appropriate category and fill out the form with accurate information. Attach relevant documents like transaction records or communication exchanges. 

Step 5: Review your complaint for accuracy. 

Step 6: Submit your complaint and receive a unique complaint registration number for tracking. 

Step 7: Track your complaint in real-time through the portal. SEBI provides updates at various stages of the process. 

Step 8: If SEBI asks for more information, respond promptly to assist with the investigation. 

Step 9: After SEBI completes its investigation, you'll receive a communication about the resolution, including any actions taken. 

By following these steps, investors can use the SEBI SCORES Portal to file complaints and help maintain transparency and fairness in India's financial markets. 
 

SEBI ODR (Online Dispute Resolution) is another platform for complaints, and an initiative by SEBI to provide investors with an online mechanism for resolving disputes related to securities transactions.  

Investors can access the platform through the official SEBI portal. Users need to register on the platform to lodge complaints or disputes related to securities market transactions. The platform facilitates online filing, tracking, and resolution of complaints in a transparent and efficient manner. 

SEBI ODR allows direct communication between parties involved in the dispute and facilitates settlement discussions. Investors can monitor the status of their complaints and receive updates through SEBI ODR just like the SCORES platform. 
 

Disclaimer 

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.