Here is the standard legal process to recover a lost share certificate in India:

1. Inform the Company or Registrar

Immediately inform the company or its Registrar and Transfer Agent (RTA) in writing about the loss. Mention details such as the shareholder's name, folio number, certificate number (if known), and number of shares.

2. Lodge an FIR

File a First Information Report (FIR) at the nearest police station. This document is critical as it legally records the loss and is often a mandatory requirement by the company for issuing a duplicate certificate.

3. Submit an Affidavit and Indemnity Bond

The shareholder must prepare and notarize:

  • An Affidavit stating the circumstances under which the certificate was lost.

  • An Indemnity Bond indemnifying the company from any future claims arising due to the lost certificate. Some companies may require a surety to sign the bond as well.

4. Publication of Public Notice

In some cases, the company may require the shareholder to publish a notice in a local or national newspaper about the lost share certificate. This step adds an additional layer of security to ensure that the certificate isn’t misused.

5. Verification and Issuance of Duplicate Certificate

After verifying all submitted documents and waiting for any objection period (typically 15–30 days), the company may issue a duplicate share certificate.

Why You Should Consider Dematerialization

Once you've received your duplicate certificate, the smartest next step is Dematerialization Of Physical Shares. This is the process of converting physical share certificates into electronic form, which is safer, faster, and eliminates the risks associated with loss, theft, or damage.

To dematerialize shares:

  • Open a demat account with a Depository Participant (DP).

  • Submit a Dematerialization Request Form (DRF) along with the physical certificate.

  • The DP forwards it to the company or RTA for verification.

  • Upon approval, the shares are credited to your demat account.

Final Thoughts

A lost share certificate may feel like a major setback, but the legal system offers a reliable and structured way to recover from it. Prompt action, accurate documentation, and following the proper procedures can help safeguard your rights as a shareholder. More importantly, to prevent future issues, consider the Dematerialization Of Physical Shares as a permanent solution.