No brokerage service platform is truly ever free of issues, despite their best efforts to make trading easy and accessible for the clients.
Whether it be technical glitches, unauthorised trading, brokerage churning, etc, facing any sort of problem with your money at risk is certainly a worrisome situation; not just because of the faults itself but also because of the tedious process that follows.
When you are faced with any sort of issue with your broking platform, it is imperative for you to know how to deal with that issue.
For the purpose of this blog, we will discuss how and when you should report the matter but before we begin, let us understand the complaint situation over at Zerodha a bit more clearly.
Zerodha Complaints Overview
Zerodha is one of India’s largest and most popular stockbroking platforms, known for making trading and investing simple and low-cost.
However, as the platform’s user base has swelled into the millions, the sheer volume of transactions has brought several operational challenges to the surface.
For the average investor, it’s important to take a step back and understand what the current data and user feedback are really telling us about the platform’s reliability.
To navigate the platform safely, you should be aware of the following recurring issues:
- Zerodha login issues
- Zerodha not working
- Zerodha excess charges
- Zerodha unauthorised trading
- Zerodha chart not working
- Zerodha internal server error
It’s important to take a step back and understand what this data is really telling us.
Exchange Complaint Data
Looking at this data carefully helps us question whether improvements are genuine or if there’s more happening beneath the surface.
| Financial year |
Total clients |
Total complaints | Resolved complaints |
Arbitrations |
| 2022-23 |
7287148 |
446 | 424 |
4 |
| 2023-24 |
7287148 |
567 | 546 |
4 |
| 2024-25 |
7888964 |
1075 | 1074 |
0 |
| 2025-26 |
6862233 |
734 | 677 |
0 |
In the table, complaints rise from 446 in 2022–23 to 567 in 2023–24, and then jump sharply to 1075 in 2024–25, which feels a bit worrying.
While most complaints are resolved each year, the spike raises concerns about service quality or increasing user dissatisfaction.
Client numbers increase in 2024–25 but then drop noticeably in 2025–26, which could signal users losing trust or moving elsewhere.
Complaints also fall in 2025–26, but this might be linked to fewer clients rather than actual improvement.
The absence of arbitrations in later years looks positive, but it also makes you wonder if users are not escalating issues enough.
When To Take Action Against Brokers?
Regularly reviewing your emails, SMS alerts, and contract notes is essential to spot any unauthorised activity at the earliest.
Even a single unfamiliar trade should be treated seriously, as delays in action can make resolution more difficult.
If you come across a transaction you did not place or approve, do not assume it is a minor error or system glitch.
Unverified trades can indicate deeper issues, and addressing them immediately protects both your funds and your rights.
You should strongly consider taking action if any of the following situations arise:
- The broker is unable to provide valid or complete order records
- Independent findings confirm trades were executed without your consent
- There is a consistent pattern of similar complaints or regulatory concerns
Reach out to your broker’s official support or grievance team within a week of noticing the issue.
Timely communication establishes your position clearly and strengthens your case from the outset.
If the response is unsatisfactory, escalate the matter through the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) within the recommended timeframe to ensure regulatory oversight.
How To Report A Complaint To SEBI?
If you have tried resolving the issue with your broker and have not gotten anywhere, SEBI is your next stop.
What Type Of Complaints Can You File With SEBI?
SEBI handles a specific range of complaints against brokers and intermediaries.
These include unauthorised trading in your account, non-receipt of funds or securities, excessive or incorrect charges, failure to execute orders, misrepresentation by broker representatives, and non-compliance with regulatory guidelines.
So it’s important to clearly mention the nature of your issue while filing. If your issue falls into any of these categories, SCORES is the right place to take it.
Things You Need To Know Before Filing A Complaint With SEBI
There are some important details that you must keep in mind while filing a complaint with SEBI, such as:
- SEBI handles complaints against registered intermediaries, so make sure your broker is SEBI-registered before filing.
- Try to file as soon as possible rather than waiting, because prolonged delay can sometimes weaken your position.
- Always keep copies of everything you submit, including your complaint acknowledgement number, so you have a record of every step you have taken.
- Never share your login credentials or OTPs, even if someone claims to be from your broker.
- Always use official SEBI platforms and verified contact details.
- Avoid delays in reporting, because acting early increases your chances of a fair resolution.
Steps To Report A Complaint To SEBI
Knowing how to approach it correctly can make a real difference to the outcome.
Taking a structured, well-documented approach ensures your complaint is taken seriously and processed without unnecessary delays.
1. Organise and Strengthen Your Evidence
Gather all relevant documents, including contract notes, account statements, email/SMS communications, screenshots, and call recordings.
Arrange them in chronological order with clear timestamps so that the issue is easy to understand and verify.
2. File a Complaint in SCORES
Visit SEBI’s official SCORES (SEBI Complaints Redress System) portal and create an account using your PAN and personal details.
Ensure all information entered is accurate, as this will be used for official communication and tracking.
3. File Your Complaint with Complete Details
Clearly describe the issue, mentioning the broker’s name, the nature of the complaint, key dates, and the financial impact involved.
Avoid vague language and focus on facts, as a well-structured complaint increases the chances of faster resolution.
4. Upload Supporting Documents at the Time of Filing
Attach all relevant evidence while submitting the complaint instead of sending it later.
Incomplete submissions can delay the process or weaken your case during review.
5. Track the Status and Respond Promptly
Once submitted, SEBI forwards your complaint to the concerned broker, who must respond within a defined timeframe.
You can track the online SEBI complaint status and reply quickly if any clarification or additional documents are requested.
6. Stock Market Arbitration
If the issue remains unresolved, you can initiate proceedings by filing a complaint with SMART ODR.
An independent panel reviews both sides and issues a decision, which provides a formal path toward dispute resolution.
Need Help?
Discovering issues with your broking platform can be stressful and confusing, especially when you’re unsure about the next steps.
From reviewing your transactions to preparing strong complaints and navigating regulatory channels, the process can feel overwhelming.
With the right support, however, you can handle the situation more confidently and improve your chances of a fair resolution.
Reach out to us today and let us handle it for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Zerodha continues to make trading accessible and affordable, the presence of rising complaints and platform-related concerns cannot be overlooked.
The data highlights that even trusted platforms may face service gaps, especially during periods of growth or high activity.
This makes it crucial for investors to stay vigilant, monitor their accounts regularly, and act quickly when something seems off.
Knowing the right steps, from contacting the broker to escalating the issue with regulators, can protect your investments and ensure your concerns are properly addressed.
