Lenskart clarifies store dress code after online backlash

BENGALURU: Eyewear retailer Lenskart on Saturday said it will standardise its in-store style guidelines to explicitly allow employees to wear symbols of faith, following criticism on social media over an earlier internal document that appeared to restrict such expression.The backlash was triggered by posts on X, where users shared screenshots of what they claimed was the company’s internal “style guide.” The document, widely circulated online, appeared to prohibit items such as religious tilak and bindis, while prescribing specific rules for accessories like hijabs and turbans. Several users alleged that the policy was discriminatory and violated constitutional protections on 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, fuelling the controversy.Responding publicly, Lenskart said 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 said in a statement.Lenskart added that it operates over 2,400 stores across India and that employees bring their “beliefs, traditions and identity” to work. It said future policies, training materials and communication would reflect this position. Backed by investors including SoftBank, Premji Invest and Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, Lenskart was listed on the NSE and BSE in November last year.