Lenskart Updates Style Guidelines to Explicitly Welcome Religious Symbols
Eyewear retailer Lenskart announced on Saturday that it will standardize its in-store style guidelines to explicitly allow employees to wear symbols of faith. This decision comes in response to significant criticism on social media over an earlier internal document that appeared to restrict such expression.
Social Media Backlash Triggers Policy Review
The controversy erupted when users on X shared screenshots of what they claimed was Lenskart's internal "style guide." The document, which circulated widely online, seemed to prohibit items such as religious tilak and bindis, while imposing specific rules for accessories like hijabs and turbans. Many users alleged that this policy was discriminatory and violated constitutional protections for religious freedom.
Criticism intensified over the past few days, with some accounts accusing the company of bias and questioning its workplace practices. The issue gained further traction after users claimed that community notes or clarifications on the platform had been removed, adding fuel to the controversy.
Lenskart's Public Response and Apology
In a public statement, Lenskart responded by saying it had "heard" its community and would make its style guide more transparent. The company clarified that its updated guidelines "explicitly and unambiguously welcome every symbol of faith and culture," including bindi, tilak, sindoor, hijab, and turban.
"If any version of our workplace communication caused hurt or made any of our team members feel that their faith was unwelcome, we are deeply sorry," the company stated. Lenskart emphasized that it operates over 2,400 stores across India and that employees bring their "beliefs, traditions and identity" to work. It assured that future policies, training materials, and communication would reflect this inclusive position.
Company Background and Investor Support
Lenskart, backed by prominent investors such as SoftBank, Premji Invest, and Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, was listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) in November last year. The company's swift response to the backlash highlights its commitment to addressing employee concerns and maintaining a positive public image.
This incident underscores the growing importance of transparent workplace policies in today's diverse corporate environment, where cultural and religious sensitivities are increasingly in the spotlight.
