Shark Tank Judge Anupam Mittal Against Google Delisting Indian Apps

March 2, 2024

Shark Tank judge and founder and CEO of People Group Anupam Mittal has criticized Google for delisting some of Indian apps. “Today is a dark day for India Internet. Google has delisted major apps from its app store even though legal hearings are underway”

The dispute revolves around attempts by Indian startups to resist Google’s imposition of a fee ranging from 11 per cent to 26 per cent on in-app payments, following an order from antitrust authorities to dismantle the previous fee structure of 15 per cent to 30 per cent. Google says that its fees contribute to the development and promotion of the Android and Play Store app ecosystem. Although two court decisions in January and February seemingly allowed Google to proceed with the new fee or remove apps, Indian companies continue to contest this imposition.

Google’s Response

Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., defended its actions, claiming that 10 Indian companies had opted not to pay for the “immense value they receive on Google Play” for an extended period.