A major controversy has erupted in Mumbai after BJP Minority Morcha leader Nazia Elahi Khan confronted staff at a Lenskart store, alleging discrimination against Hindu religious symbols. A video of the incident, which surfaced on April 20, has gone viral.
What Happened Inside the Store
According to videos circulating on social media, Nazia Elahi Khan entered a Lenskart outlet, reportedly in the Andheri area, along with a camera crew and demanded to meet the store manager. During the interaction, she questioned the manager, identified as Mohsin Khan, over alleged restrictions on Hindu symbols like tilak and kalawa.
In the video, she can be heard asking, “Is that why tilak was stopped? Because you are Mohsin Khan?” She further accused the management of promoting one religion over another and raised slogans inside the store.
The situation escalated when Khan called Hindu employees forward and applied tilak on their foreheads, claiming there should be “no shame” in expressing religious identity. The employees appeared visibly uncomfortable but did not resist.
Allegations of “Religious Bias” and Strong Claims
Khan alleged that Hindu practices were being suppressed while symbols like hijab were allowed, questioning whether such policies indicated a move toward “Sharia-like rules.”
She also made provocative remarks, saying, “Do you skip your prayers or fasting? Then why should others compromise?” while addressing the staff.
Additionally, she demanded a wider probe into the company and even tagged top authorities, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, calling for an investigation. However, no evidence has been presented to support claims of organised discrimination or extremist links.
Company Clarification on Religious Symbols
Amid the backlash, Lenskart had earlier clarified its stance, stating that its workplace guidelines do not ban any religious symbols.
In a statement, the company said it “explicitly welcomes every symbol of faith,” including bindi, tilak, hijab, turban, and other cultural identifiers. The company emphasised that its stores are run by employees from diverse backgrounds and that personal beliefs are respected.
