Google changes its stance: Reinstates Indian applications following government backlash.

As per a Reuters report, Google has backtracked on its decision and decided to restore Indian apps it had previously removed due to a billing disagreement, signaling a change in position following backlash from the Indian government and local internet startups. Google faced widespread criticism for delisting over 100 Indian apps, including popular ones like Matrimony.com, for not complying with its in-app payment policy, which requires a service fee for transactions not processed through Google's payment system.

"In the spirit of cooperation, we are temporarily reinstating the apps of the developers with appeals pending in the Supreme Court," Google stated, as quoted by Reuters. The decision to relist the apps came after a meeting between Sanjay Gupta, Google India's head, and IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, which reportedly played a pivotal role in resolving the dispute.

Criticism against Google's actions had been mounting, especially from Indian companies that have been in disagreement with the tech giant over its policies. The root of the conflict lies in the opposition by certain Indian startups to Google's imposition of substantial fees on in-app payments. Despite directives from Indian antitrust authorities to refrain from enforcing high transaction charges, Google persisted, leading to legal battles and pushback from the startup community.

"We believe that in the coming months, both the start-up community as well as Google would be able to come to a long-term resolution," commented IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, according to ANI. Vaishnaw had previously criticized Google's actions, stating that such unilateral decisions "cannot be permitted."