Google’s recent move to remove certain Indian apps from its Play Store has sparked backlash from the founders, executives, and users of the affected companies on social media platforms. Notable apps such as BharatMatrimony, Jeevansathi, 99 Acres, Naukri.com, and Shaadi.com have been delisted by Google, resulting in widespread criticism.
The removal of apps has sparked the trending hashtag #EvilGoogle.
In light of Google’s recent decision, Anupam Mittal, the founder of Shaadi.com and a judge on Shark Tank, expressed his dismay over what he called a “bleak day” for the Indian internet. Despite ongoing legal proceedings at the Competition Commission of India (CCI) and the Supreme Court, Google proceeded with the delisting. Mittal criticized Google for their false narratives and audacity, suggesting that they have little regard for the situation. He emphasized the urgency of the matter, referring to it as the new Digital East India Co, and called for collective action to halt this trend. Please retweet and join the movement to #SaveOurStartups.
“There are no pending invoices of Google with us. All have been paid in a timely manner,” he said.
Bikchandani also told moneycontrol.com that the CCI must take action against Google’s anti-competitive behavior.
Google is being encouraged to reinstate the applications.
The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), a non-profit industry body, has expressed its strong disapproval of the removal of certain apps from the Play Store. IAMAI has called for Google to reinstate these delisted apps, including those of prominent consumer digital companies such as Bharatmatrimony, Info Edge, Shaadi.com, and TrulyMadly. The governing council of IAMAI has also criticized the delisting of these apps, deeming it unfair and disproportionate.
However, the response on social media has been varied. While some users have criticized Google for their monopolistic practices and labeled them as “evil,” others have placed blame on the affected companies for complaining against the tech giant.
One user on X platform stated that Google’s removal of apps from the Android app store is a clear indication of their monopoly dictatorship. They believe that centralized organizations like Google and Apple should not have the power to impose a high “internet tax” of up to 30% on Indian developers. According to this user, alternatives to these centralized platforms are much needed.
Another user accused Google of misusing its monopoly power and called their actions hypocritical, as they go against their own motto of “Don’t be evil.”
A different user raised concerns about the financial burden placed on Indian founders. They highlighted the various taxes and fees already imposed on businesses, including GST, corporate tax, and income tax. Adding a 30% digital tax to Google’s revenue demands makes it difficult for Indian founders to build profitable businesses. This user questioned how this aligns with Sundar Pichai’s statements about India’s rich culture and growing economy.
Furthermore, a user shared a CCI Order from October 2022, which stated that Google cannot restrict developers from using third-party billing systems. They accused Google of blatantly disobeying this order.
Overall, the response to the removal of these apps has been mixed, with some criticizing Google’s actions and others placing blame on the affected companies.
Many questioned the companies affected by the situation, rather than Google’s actions. A user on social media platform X mentioned that Indian startups and entrepreneurs have been relying on Google Play Store for years without attempting to create a local alternative. The user emphasized that reacting to Google’s actions negatively will not be beneficial. “Recognize that India is primarily a consumer-driven country and should transition into a producer-oriented one. Focus on investing in research and development,” the user suggested. Additionally, several users pointed out that Google, being a private entity, is not obligated to ensure their success. “Find ways to attract customers using your own strategies if you are against supporting #EvilGoogle. It’s that simple,” another user stated.
Why did Google remove these apps?
Google has made the decision to eliminate these applications as a result of a disagreement regarding service fee payments. The tech giant has been adamant about charging fees ranging from 11 per cent to 26 per cent on in-app transactions. However, some Indian startups have resisted Google’s fee structure, following instructions from the country’s antitrust authorities to revise its previous fee system, which involved charges ranging from 15-30 per cent. Despite unfavorable court decisions in January and February, including a Supreme Court ruling that did not provide relief to startups, Google has maintained its stance on fee collection or app removal. The outcome of this dispute between Google and the impacted companies in the upcoming days remains uncertain.