In the event of a loss of share certificate, shareholders must follow a structured process to safeguard their ownership rights and obtain a duplicate. The first step is to immediately inform the company or its registrar and transfer agent (RTA) about the misplaced or lost certificate. A formal application, along with an affidavit for loss of share certificate and a copy of the FIR or police complaint, is generally required. Most companies also mandate an indemnity bond to protect themselves from future disputes. Once the documents are verified, the company issues a duplicate share certificate in the shareholder’s name. Timely action is crucial, as the share certificate serves as proof of ownership and is essential for selling, transferring, or claiming dividends on shares.