Google vs Startups: Telcos body accuses tech giants of bias against Indian firms

The COAI statement said that the same LTGs vehemently opposed the proposal for a fair-share contribution for the additional infra costs that Telcos bear. The statement clarified that Telcos are seeking this compensation only from 4-5 LTGs, and not the Indian startup ecosystem.

The statement from COAI comes even as Google restored most apps originally delisted on March 1. Google, in a blog post, had cited non-compliance with its payment policy as grounds for delisting the apps. The delisting had invited comments from the Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), and Telecom, Ashwini Vaishnaw. Google and startups have met Vaishnaw and Minister of State, MeitY, Meity Rajeev Chandrasekhar. Both ministers have expressed concern about the delisting of Indian Startups.

A Google spokesperson said, "In the spirit of cooperation, we are temporarily reinstating the apps of the developers with appeals pending in the Supreme Court. Google maintains its right to implement and enforce its business model, as established in various courts. We will invoice our full applicable services fees in the interim and are extending payment timelines for these companies. We look forward to a collaborative effort to find solutions that respect the needs of all parties."