Why do we need to be awful? Here is a simple rule: No is an option, unless it's really not an option. If it's not an option, you need to be very clear about why (in the app application process maybe), otherwise your app gets declined.
i.e. if tiktok/ig asks for permissions on camera and microphone, no is an option, because you don't need either to use either. If parts of your app can feasibly be used by a user without certain permissions it is on you to design the app in a way where that is possible. No camera or microphone enabled? Conditionally disable the functionality that would require those.
To make this simpler, the burden is on the asker. If you are not clear or trying to be clever, the answer is no. If that sounds draconian, keep in mind, that the app creator has the option to completely forgo this additional step by creating an app that makes permissions optional.
Focusing on enforcing that would make a petty army race unnecessary, and it's the better call for humans anyway.