Maharashtra Cyber has directed Google Play Store and Apple Store to remove bike taxi platforms including Ola, Uber and Rapido, alleging they operate illegally in the state without transport permissions. Authorities cited passenger safety concerns, weak verification systems and violations of the Motor Vehicles Act while warning of legal action under the IT Act if directions are ignored.
In a major crackdown on app-based bike taxi services, Maharashtra Cyber has directed Google Play Store and Apple Store to remove platforms such as Ola, Uber and Rapido, alleging that they are operating illegal bike taxi services in the state without valid permissions. The cyber police have issued a notice under Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, warning of strict legal action if the directions are ignored.
The action follows a complaint from the office of Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, who raised concerns over unauthorised bike taxi operations in Maharashtra. According to officials, these platforms are allegedly running bike taxi services without approvals from the transport department and in violation of provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. Maharashtra Cyber, which has been designated as the nodal agency to issue such notices, said the services pose serious risks to passenger safety.
Maharashtra Cyber warned that since these companies conduct business in India, they are required to follow Indian laws. Deputy Inspector General Sanjay Shintre stated in the notice that an early and positive response was expected from Google and other intermediaries.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-cyber-orders-google-apple-to-remove-ola-uber-rapido-bike-taxis-over-illegal-operations-without-permits