Business
Should Indian Startups be Worried as Google Delists Apps from Play Store?
Indian startups reel as Google delists apps, sparking allegations of unfair practices. With founders crying foul and the government stepping in, the saga highlights broader concerns of dominance and regulation in the digital marketplace. The standoff leaves startups’ futures uncertain.
In a contentious move, Google has delisted several prominent Indian apps from the Play Store, including Shaadi.com, STAGE, FRND, as well as apps under Matrimony.com’s umbrella. Other affected platforms include TrulyMadly, Balaji Telefilms’ Altt (formerly ALTBalaji), audio platform Kuku FM, dating service Quack Quack, and Bharat Matrimony. The swift action has left startup founders reeling, with names like Sanjeev Bikhchandani, Murugavel Janakiraman, and Anupam Mittal condemning Google’s actions.
The controversy erupted as Google took action against several prominent apps for allegedly flouting its user choice billing system. As the controversy unfolds, the fate of these delisted apps hangs in the balance amidst calls for government intervention and regulatory clarity.
Union telecom minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s strong stance in support of Indian startups emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting Indian startups and ensuring fairness in the digital ecosystem. Plans were announced for a meeting between Google and affected app developers to resolve the dispute.
Founders Caught Off Guard
Despite prior notices from Google warning of potential delisting, many startup founders were caught off guard as their apps were swiftly removed from the Play Store. The actions came shortly after the Supreme Court’s ruling on February 9, which declined relief to Indian app developers regarding Google’s billing policies.
Founders’ Outcry: Allegations of Stifling Competition
Startup founders voiced their frustrations, accusing Google of using its market dominance to stifle competition. Sanjeev Bikhchandani and Murugavel Janakiraman condemned Google’s actions, urging government intervention to free India’s internet from tech giants’ clutches. Snehil Khanor and Anupam Mittal expressed readiness to pursue legal action against Google, alleging non-compliance with the Competition Commission Of India’s order.
Google’s Defense: Emphasis on Fairness and Compliance
In defense, Google stated that companies failed to comply with payment policies despite ample time given. The tech giant emphasized the need for a level playing field and fair contributions from all developers. Google’s claim of non-compliance by 10 companies with payment policies underlines its commitment to maintaining a fair ecosystem for all developers.
Government’s Intervention: Asserting Protection for Indian Startups
Amidst the standoff, the Indian government intervened, asserting that the delisting of apps “is not permitted.” Union telecom minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s strong stance in support of Indian startups emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting Indian startups and ensuring fairness in the digital ecosystem. Plans were announced for a meeting between Google and affected app developers to resolve the dispute.
Finally, stakeholders await resolutions
The clash between Google and Indian startups underscores broader concerns about the dominance of tech giants and the challenges faced by startups in navigating uneven playing fields. Stakeholders await a resolution that ensures fairness and accountability in the app marketplace.
