Eyewear retailer Lenskart has addressed the wave of online criticism triggered by a purported internal grooming document. In response, the company has issued a public apology and announced a revised ‘In-Store Style Guide’ that clearly permits employees to display religious and cultural symbols while at work. The controversy began earlier this week when a document, claimed to be Lenskart’s employee grooming policy, circulated widely on social media.
Critics alleged that it placed limits on visible religious markers, particularly items like the bindi and tilak. The claims sparked widespread outrage, with some users even calling for a boycott.
In an effort to rebuild trust, Lenskart shared a statement on X, stressing openness and accountability. The company said it is making its guidelines public to eliminate ambiguity and reassure both employees and customers about its values.
The updated policy makes it clear that employees are free to wear symbols of faith. These include items such as the bindi, tilak, sindoor, kalawa, mangalsutra, kada, hijab, and turban. The company stressed that the revised framework “explicitly and unambiguously” supports personal expression tied to cultural and religious identity.
"If any version of our workplace communication caused hurt or made any of our team members feel that their faith was unwelcome here, we are deeply sorry. That is not who Lenskart is, and it is not who we will ever be," the company said.
Founder Clarification And Company Stand
Before the latest announcement, founder Peyush Bansal had already addressed the issue, clarifying that the viral document did not reflect current policies. He described it as an outdated version and reassured the public about the company’s stance.
"I want to speak directly that this document does not reflect our present guidelines. Our policy has no restrictions on any form of religious expression, including bindi and tilak," Bansal had stated, apologising for the confusion and concern the situation had caused.
Building on that clarification, Lenskart highlighted its identity as a homegrown brand with more than 2,400 stores across the country. The company noted that its workforce reflects diverse traditions and beliefs, which employees bring with them daily.
"Lenskart was built in Bharat, by Indians, for Indians... That is not something we will ever ask anyone to leave at the door," the statement read.
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