Indian IT Minister Condemns Google’s Removal of Apps

Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw disapproves of Google’s decision to remove certain Indian apps from its Play Store over a payment dispute.

Google removed several Indian apps, including popular ones like Bharat Matrimony and Naukri, for allegedly not adhering to its in-app payment guidelines.

Minister’s Statement on Protection of Startups:

Vaishnaw affirms his commitment to protecting Indian startups and emphasizes the impermissibility of such app removals.

Google refrains from commenting on the matter while asserting that in-app fees contribute to developing and promoting the Android and Play Store ecosystem.

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Dispute Over In-App Payment Fees:

The dispute revolves around Indian startups’ resistance to Google’s imposition of fees ranging from 11% to 26% on in-app payments, despite antitrust authorities’ orders to refrain from mandatory enforcement.

Recent court decisions, including one by the Supreme Court, seemingly authorize Google to impose fees or remove apps not complying with its guidelines.

Impact on Affected Companies:

Matrimony.com and Info Edge are among the worst-hit companies, with multiple apps removed from the Play Store, leading to potential revenue loss and business disruption.

Google’s removal of Paytm from the Play Store in 2020 due to policy violations triggered a collective response from the startup industry, prompting the launch of alternative app stores and legal challenges against Google.