A group representing startups has approached the central antitrust body against the tech giant Google after it delist some prominent Indian company apps from Google Play Store. They urge the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to order Alphabet Inc to restore these apps on its marketplace, Play Store. The request, revealed in a letter seen by Reuters, escalates the confrontation with the US giant in a crucial market.
The startups have brought the issue to the attention of the CCI. The commission has been looking into startups’ complaints that Google is not complying with a 2022 antitrust directive preventing it from taking adverse measures against companies using alternate billing systems.
Google Denies Wrongdoing Amidst Removal of Indian Apps
In a letter to the CCI dated March 1, the Alliance of Digital India Foundation (ADIF) asserted that Google’s removal of apps constituted a “brazen move” and was deemed anti-competitive. ADIF urged the regulator to compel Google to reverse its decision, highlighting the potential “irreparable harm to the entire market.” Google declined to comment, while ADIF and CCI did not respond immediately to Reuters’ requests for comment.
Last week, Google eliminated over 100 Indian apps, including ten popular ones such as Bharat Matrimony, Shaadi.com, Kuku FM, and Naukri, from its Play Store. Google also cautioned several others about possible actions for non-compliance with its billing policies.
Following the removal of multiple apps, Google reinstated some on Saturday, March 2. This included apps like Shaadi.com and five of Info Edge’s businesses: Naukri, Naukri Recruiter, Naukrigulf Job Search App, 99acres, and Shiksha.
Google Delisting Move Sparks Criticism from Indian Companies
Indian companies, many of which have a history of conflict with Google and have criticized its practices, have criticized the removal of apps. Google claims compliance, stating that its in-app fee supports the development of the Android and Play Store ecosystem. The dispute arises from Indian startups’ efforts to resist Google’s imposition of a fee ranging from 11% to 26% on in-app payments. This follows orders from the country’s antitrust authorities to refrain from enforcing an earlier fee of 15% to 30%.
Government and Startups React to Google App Delisting
On Saturday, March 2, IT and Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that delisting apps like this cannot be permitted. “The government takes a strong view of Google delisting some apps from the Play Store. We will not allow delisting of apps,” Vaishnaw said.
On Monday, startup executives met with India’s Deputy IT Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar to express concerns over the app removal. Chandrasekhar mentioned that his ministry would write to Google to ensure the reinstatement of the apps. Later, he stated that he would address the matter with Google to find a sustainable and long-term solution.
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