New Delhi, March 2, 2024: in a scathing critique, Shark Tank judge and founder of People Group and shaadi.com, Anupam Mittal, has called out Google for its recent actions in delisting several Indian apps from its app store. The move, which occurred even as legal hearings are underway at the Competition Commission of India (CCI) and the Supreme Court, has raised concerns about the impact on Indian startups and the digital sector
The Dark Day for India’s Internet
Mittal minced no words when he stated, “Today is a dark day for India’s Internet.” Google’s decision to delist major Indian apps from its app store during ongoing legal proceedings at the CCI and the Supreme Court has sent shockwaves through the tech community. Mittal’s concern centers around the impact on Indian startups and the broader digital sector.
The Lagaan Must Be Stopped
Drawing a historical parallel, Mittal likened Google’s actions to the infamous East India Company. He tweeted, “Make no mistake – this is the new Digital East India Co, and this #Lagaan must be stopped!” His call to action resonated across social media platforms as users rallied to support Indian app developers.
Google’s User Choice Billing System
At the heart of the issue lies Google’s user choice billing system, which imposes service fees ranging from 11% to 26% on app developers for downloads of paid apps and in-app purchases from the Play Store. While Google claims that its tiered pricing benefits Indian developers, Mittal argues that this move threatens the entire Indian digital sector.
Delisted Apps and Their Alternatives
Among the delisted apps are popular platforms like Bharat Matrimony, Telugu Matrimony, Tamil Matrimony, and Shaadi.com. Dating apps such as Truly Madly and QuackQuack also faced the axe. Additionally, vernacular video-streaming platform Stage, Balaji Telefilms’ Altt, and audio streaming app Kuku FM were removed from the Play Store.
Google’s response? Existing users can still access these apps without interruption, and developers have alternative options, including distribution through other Android app stores or directly via their websites.
Government Intervention Needed
Mittal’s plea to the Indian government is clear: direct the CCI to ensure Google complies with its order and immediately restores all delisted apps. The fate of Indian startups and the digital landscape hangs in the balance, and Mittal’s call for action echoes across the nation.
As the battle between Google and Indian app developers intensifies, the question remains: Will the Lagaan be lifted, or will it cast a long shadow over India’s digital future?
Disclaimer: This article is based on factual information available as of March 2, 2024. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of any organization or entity.
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