Bharti Airtel Sets Deadline for Unclaimed Dividend and Shares

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Bharti Airtel, one of India’s leading telecommunications companies, has recently announced a significant update for its shareholders regarding unclaimed dividends and shares. Through a public notice dated June 17, 2025, and further communication to stock exchanges on June 18, 2025, the company has clearly stated that shareholders must claim their unpaid dividends from the financial year 2017-18 onwards by September 20, 2025. Failing to act by this deadline will lead to the compulsory transfer of these shares and the associated unclaimed dividends to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF). This announcement underscores the importance of regularly monitoring one’s investment and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.

Bharti Airtel’s Recent Announcement

The recent announcement by Bharti Airtel focuses on ensuring that shareholders who have not claimed their dividends for seven consecutive years take necessary steps to secure their investments. The company has highlighted that dividends unclaimed from the financial year 2017-18 and onwards fall under this category. By setting the deadline of September 20, 2025, Bharti Airtel intends to give ample time for shareholders to come forward and claim their dividends. This move aligns with the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, and the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (Accounting, Audit, Transfer and Refund) Rules, 2016.

Why the Transfer to IEPF is Required?

The transfer of unclaimed dividends and shares to the IEPF is not unique to Bharti Airtel but a statutory obligation for all companies under Indian law. The main objective of this regulation is to protect the interests of investors and prevent misuse of unclaimed assets. According to the Companies Act, 2013, if dividends remain unclaimed for seven consecutive years, the corresponding shares must be transferred to the IEPF. This ensures that these assets are kept safe until the rightful owner comes forward to claim them. Bharti Airtel’s compliance with this rule reflects its commitment to investor protection and regulatory transparency.

Detailed Timeline and Important Dates

Bharti Airtel has laid out a clear timeline for shareholders. The unclaimed dividends from the financial year 2017-18 started accumulating seven years ago, making FY 2024-25 the final year in this cycle. The cut-off date for shareholders to submit claims is September 20, 2025. After this date, any remaining unclaimed dividends and shares will be transferred to the IEPF. The company issued this notice on June 17, 2025, through prominent newspapers like Mint (English) and Hindustan (Hindi), and followed up with a formal communication to the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and BSE Limited on June 18, 2025. These steps are essential to ensure that shareholders have adequate information and time to act.

Who Will Be Affected?

The primary stakeholders affected by this announcement are shareholders who have not encashed their dividends for seven consecutive years starting from FY 2017-18. This applies to both physical and DEMAT shareholding categories. Bharti Airtel has updated its website with a detailed list of such shareholders, including Folio Number, DPID, and Client ID, making it easier for investors to check their status. It is crucial for every shareholder to verify whether they are part of this list to avoid unintended transfer of their shares and dividends to the IEPF.

Steps to Claim Unpaid Dividends Before the Deadline

To avoid the transfer of shares to the IEPF, shareholders must act swiftly. They are required to submit a written application to Bharti Airtel or its Registrar and Share Transfer Agent (RTA), KFin Technologies Limited, before September 20, 2025. The application must be supported by necessary documents such as a self-attested copy of the PAN card, a cancelled cheque leaf for bank verification, and a self-attested copy of address proof. If the original dividend warrants are available, they should also be enclosed. In cases where these are not available, an indemnity bond in the prescribed format must be submitted. Following these steps carefully ensures the rightful claim of dividends before they are transferred to IEPF.

What Happens if You Miss the Deadline?

If shareholders fail to submit valid claims by September 20, 2025, Bharti Airtel will proceed to transfer the shares and the related unpaid dividends to the IEPF without any further communication. Once transferred, these shares and dividends are no longer under the control of Bharti Airtel, and any further benefits like dividends, bonuses, or rights issues accruing on these shares will also be credited to the IEPF. Importantly, voting rights on these shares will remain frozen, and shareholders cannot participate in corporate decisions until they reclaim their shares from the IEPF. This emphasizes the need for immediate action to safeguard one’s investments.

Process for Physical Shareholders

For shareholders holding physical share certificates, the process involves additional steps. Bharti Airtel will issue new share certificates to facilitate the conversion into DEMAT form before transferring them to the IEPF. Once these new certificates are issued, the original physical certificates will stand automatically cancelled and deemed non-negotiable. This means that physical certificates cannot be traded or used for any other corporate action. Bharti Airtel has clarified that the list uploaded on its website serves as a formal notice for the issuance of such duplicate certificates. Shareholders holding physical shares must be extra cautious and complete the necessary paperwork without delay.

Process for DEMAT Shareholders

In the case of shares held in DEMAT form, the process is comparatively simpler. Bharti Airtel will carry out a corporate action through the depositories to transfer the shares directly to the IEPF Authority’s DEMAT account. Shareholders holding shares in DEMAT form must still ensure that their dividends are claimed on time, as the process of transfer is automated and does not require physical intervention. Even though DEMAT shares are easier to handle, shareholders should actively check their accounts and verify if any dividends are pending to avoid unintended transfer.

Consequences of Transfer to IEPF

Once the shares and unclaimed dividends are transferred to the IEPF, shareholders lose immediate control over these assets. Future corporate benefits like dividends, interest, bonuses, and rights shares will also be credited to the IEPF account. The shares cannot be sold or pledged until they are reclaimed. This also affects the liquidity of one’s investment portfolio. Moreover, the voting rights attached to these shares are frozen, meaning shareholders cannot vote on resolutions or participate in annual general meetings. Knowing about these consequences is important for every investor to make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary complications in the future.

Procedure to Reclaim Shares and Dividends from IEPF

Despite the transfer, shareholders still have an opportunity to reclaim their shares and dividends. The process involves submitting an application in Form IEPF-5 to the IEPF Authority, which must be done online. After submission, a physical copy of the application, along with all supporting documents, needs to be sent to the company’s RTA for verification. The documents typically required include identity proof, address proof, shareholding proof, and an indemnity bond if original documents are not available. Once the application is verified, the IEPF Authority processes the claim and transfers the shares and dividends back to the claimant. While this is possible, it is a lengthy and cumbersome process, making it far more prudent to act before the transfer.

Importance of Verifying Dividend Status

Shareholders are strongly advised to verify their dividend status regularly. Many investors forget to encash dividend warrants or update their bank and address details, leading to unclaimed dividends. Bharti Airtel has made it easy for shareholders to check their status through its website, where the list of affected shareholders is available. By checking details such as Folio Number or DPID and Client ID, investors can quickly ascertain if any dividends remain unpaid. This proactive approach helps avoid last-minute complications and ensures that shareholders retain control over their shares and associated benefits.

Regulatory Compliance by Bharti Airtel

The announcement and subsequent actions taken by Bharti Airtel are part of its obligations under SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015. The company has demonstrated full compliance by issuing individual communications to affected shareholders, publishing newspaper advertisements, and informing stock exchanges. Bharti Airtel’s commitment to regulatory compliance highlights its dedication to maintaining high corporate governance standards. Through these efforts, the company aims to protect shareholder interests and maintain transparency in all its dealings. This also sets a good example for other listed companies on adhering to legal requirements.

Role of Joint Company Secretary & Compliance Officer

Rohit Krishan Puri, the Joint Company Secretary & Compliance Officer of Bharti Airtel, has played a pivotal role in executing this compliance drive. His office is responsible for overseeing legal and regulatory obligations, coordinating with RTAs, and ensuring shareholders are well-informed. This proactive approach not only strengthens the trust of shareholders but also reinforces the company’s image as a responsible corporate entity. By prioritizing transparent communication and compliance, Bharti Airtel aims to avoid legal challenges and safeguard its corporate reputation.

Why acting now is important?

Bharti Airtel Sets Deadline for Unclaimed Dividend & Shares serves as an urgent reminder for shareholders to act promptly. Delays can lead to irreversible consequences like loss of control over shares, frozen voting rights, and difficulty in reclaiming assets. The process to reclaim from IEPF involves multiple steps and approvals, making it a tedious affair. By addressing the matter before September 20, 2025, shareholders can easily safeguard their investments without undergoing additional procedural hassles. Taking prompt action ensures that investors continue to enjoy dividends and corporate benefits seamlessly.

How to Avoid Similar Situations in Future?

To avoid such situations in the future, shareholders should maintain updated contact and bank details with the company and depositories. Regularly encashing dividend warrants, opting for electronic dividend payments, and monitoring email and SMS alerts from the company are good practices. Investors should also periodically review their investment portfolio and corporate communication to identify any missed dividends or other corporate actions. Adopting these simple habits can prevent unnecessary transfer of shares to the IEPF and help maintain continuous control over one’s investments.

Conclusion

Bharti Airtel’s notice regarding unclaimed dividends and shares is a significant call to action for all its shareholders. The September 20, 2025, deadline offers an important opportunity to secure one’s investments and avoid the legal complexities of reclaiming from the IEPF. The keyword Bharti Airtel Sets Deadline for Unclaimed Dividend & Shares should serve as a strong reminder to all investors to act immediately. By staying vigilant and proactive, shareholders can protect their rights, enjoy uninterrupted corporate benefits, and maintain their voting powers without complications. Investors are advised to contact Compliance Calendar LLP or visit Compliance Calendar LLP’s official website for detailed guidance and ensure timely compliance. You can also connect with the Recovery of Shares (ROS) Expert through mail at info@ccoffice.in or Call/Whatsapp at +91 9988424211.

FAQs

Q1. What is the last date to claim unclaimed dividends from Bharti Airtel?

Ans. The last date to claim unclaimed dividends from Bharti Airtel is September 20, 2025. Shareholders must submit all necessary documents and complete the process before this date. If they fail to do so, their dividends and shares will be transferred to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) as per legal requirements.

Q2. Why is Bharti Airtel transferring shares and dividends to IEPF?

Ans. Bharti Airtel is transferring shares and dividends to the IEPF because it is required by the Companies Act, 2013, and the IEPF Rules, 2016. If dividends remain unclaimed for seven consecutive years, the law mandates that both the dividends and the corresponding shares must be transferred to the IEPF to protect investor interests.

Q3. How can I find out if my dividends are unclaimed?

Ans. You can check if your dividends are unclaimed by visiting Bharti Airtel’s official website (www.airtel.in). The company has published a list of shareholders whose dividends are unclaimed, identified by Folio Number, DPID, and Client ID. You should verify this list to ensure your investments are safe.

Q4. What documents do I need to claim my unclaimed dividend?

Ans. To claim your unclaimed dividend, you will need: 

  • A self-attested copy of your PAN card.

  • A self-attested copy of your current address proof.

  • A cancelled cheque leaf for bank detail verification.

  • The original uncashed dividend warrant(s), if available.

    If the original warrants are not available, you will also need to submit an indemnity bond in the specified format. 

Q5. What happens if I do not claim my dividend before September 20, 2025?

Ans. If you do not claim your dividend before September 20, 2025, your shares and unclaimed dividends will be transferred to the IEPF. Once transferred, you lose control over these shares, your voting rights are frozen, and any future benefits on these shares will also go to the IEPF until you reclaim them.

Q6.  How are physical shares transferred to IEPF?

Ans. For physical shares, Bharti Airtel will issue new share certificates to convert them into DEMAT form. After this, the shares will be transferred to the IEPF’s DEMAT account. Once new certificates are issued, the original physical certificates are automatically cancelled and cannot be used for any transaction.

Q7.  How can I claim my shares and dividends back from IEPF?

Ans. To claim your shares and dividends back from the IEPF, you need to file an online application using Form IEPF-5 on the IEPF website. After online submission, you must send a physical copy along with required documents to Bharti Airtel’s Registrar and Share Transfer Agent (KFin Technologies) for verification. The process can take time and involves careful document checking.

Q8. Who should I contact if I need help with the claim process?

Ans. You should contact Bharti Airtel’s Registrar and Share Transfer Agent (RTA), KFin Technologies Limited. You can reach them at their Hyderabad office, call their toll-free number 1800-3454-001, or email at einward.ris@kfintech.com. They can guide you through the process and help resolve any queries.

Q9. Will I continue to receive dividends and benefits after shares are transferred to IEPF?

Ans. No. Once your shares are transferred to the IEPF, any future dividends or benefits like bonus shares and rights issues will also be transferred to the IEPF account. You will not receive these benefits directly until you successfully reclaim your shares from the IEPF.

Q10. How can I avoid such transfers in the future?

Ans. To avoid such transfers, always claim your dividends on time, keep your bank and address details updated with the company, and regularly check for any unpaid dividends. Opting for electronic credit of dividends into your bank account is also a good practice to prevent missing payments.

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