Snapdeal hit by 'app ratings' protest, Flipkart's Bansal supports rival

E-commerce marketplace Snapdeal seems to be facing the brunt of its brand ambassador Aamir Khan's recent comments on rising intolerance in the country.

Responding to the Bollywood actor's remarks, a section of Snapdeal's mobile users gave the e-tailer's app a one-star (lowest) rating.

A social media campaign titled #AppWapsi is urging users to delete the Snapdeal app from their smartphones.

At a recent event in New Delhi, Khan said he was alarmed at the rise in religious intolerance over the past few months, prompting his film-maker wife Kiran Rao to wonder if they should relocate to another country. The comments went viral on social media.

Not connected

Snapdeal, which is run by Jasper Infotech Pvt, issued a statement on the episode.

"Snapdeal is neither connected nor plays a role in comments made by Aamir Khan in his personal capacity," a company spokesperson said.

"Snapdeal is a proud Indian company built by passionate young Indians focused on building an inclusive digital India…we will continue towards our mission of creating one million successful online entrepreneurs in India," the spokesperson added.

Sachin Bansal

Snapdeal found an unlikely supporter in Flipkart co-founder and CEO, Sachin Bansal.

"This is a flawed logic. Brands don't buy into brand ambassador's personal opinions. @snapdeal shouldn't face this," Bansal tweeted today.

The comments assume significance as the e-commerce giants are generally known for countering each other on social media.

User's ire

Flipkart too had faced users' ire earlier this year, but in a different context. The Flipkart app was down rated and un-installed by several users after Bansal tweeted in support of Airtel Zero, a data plan which was seen violating the principle of net neutrality. Eventually, Flipkart opted out of talks to become part of Airtel Zero.