BJP Leader Sparks Controversy at Lenskart Over Religious Symbols in Mumbai
BJP leader applies tilak on Lenskart staff amid row over religious symbols
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
Nazia Elahi Khan, a leader from India's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), created a stir at a Lenskart showroom in Mumbai by applying tilak on employees amid allegations of the company's restrictions on religious symbols. Lenskart has since updated its policies to allow various religious expressions following backlash over its previous guidelines.
- 01BJP leader Nazia Elahi Khan confronted Lenskart staff over alleged restrictions on religious symbols.
- 02The incident was sparked by claims that the company's dress code favored certain religious expressions while restricting others.
- 03Lenskart's founder clarified that the outdated style guide did not reflect current policies.
- 04The company has since revised its policy to allow a broader range of religious symbols.
- 05The controversy has led to ongoing criticism and calls for accountability from the public.
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The recent incident at Lenskart, an eyewear retailer in Mumbai, involved BJP leader Nazia Elahi Khan applying tilak on employees, igniting a debate over the company's alleged restrictions on religious symbols. This confrontation arose from claims that Lenskart's grooming guide permitted items like hijabs and turbans but barred symbols such as bindis and tilaks. Following the backlash, Lenskart's founder and CEO Peyush Bansal stated that the controversial style guide was outdated and did not represent the company's current stance. In response, Lenskart released a revised guide that allows various religious symbols, including tilak, bindi, and kalawa, and expressed regret for any confusion caused. Despite these clarifications, criticism persists, with some questioning the delay in issuing a clear apology and calling for accountability regarding the company's policies.
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The incident highlights the ongoing discussions about religious expression in the workplace, potentially affecting employee morale and public perception of Lenskart.
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