Mumbai: Eyewear retailer Lenskart has issued a public apology and released a revised in-store style guide after facing intense online criticism over an alleged employee dress code that appeared to restrict certain religious symbols. The controversy sparked calls for a boycott and triggered a social media storm over claims of discriminatory workplace rules.
In a statement shared online, the company said it had “heard” customers and community concerns and was making its style guide public and transparent. Lenskart added that the new guidelines “explicitly and unambiguously” welcome symbols of faith worn by employees.
The revised policy now permits religious and cultural markers including bindi, tilak, sindoor, kalawa, mangalsutra, kada, hijab and turban. Earlier versions circulating online had allegedly barred some of these items, prompting accusations of bias and exclusion.
The company apologised for any hurt caused, saying any communication that made employees feel their faith was unwelcome did not reflect its values. Lenskart also pledged that future policies, training material and official communication would align with inclusive principles.
However, the apology has not fully calmed the backlash. Many users said the response came too late, with some claiming the brand had already lost public trust. The row also appeared to hit investor sentiment, with reports claiming that Lenskart shares fell nearly 5% amid the controversy.
