Cyber Cell Issues Notices to Apple and Google to Remove Ola, Uber and Rapido Apps
By Anita Shukla, Senior correspondent
Mumbai, May 16: The Maharashtra government has intensified its action against unauthorized bike taxi services operating in the state. In a major development, the Maharashtra Cyber Department has issued notices directing them to remove ride-hailing applications such as from their app stores in Maharashtra.
According to the notices issued on May 15, the authorities have instructed both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store to block access to these apps alleging that the companies are illegally operating bike taxi services in the state without official permission. The notices were issued through the office of the Additional Director General of Police Maharashtra Cyber.
The state government has maintained that bike taxi services are currently not authorized in Maharashtra. Despite this several aggregator companies have continued offering passenger transport services through two wheelers. The Transport Department had earlier objected to such operations but with services continuing the government has now decided to take stricter measures.
Officials have also warned that failure to comply with the directives could lead to penal action against Apple and Google under provisions of the Information Technology Act and other applicable regulations.
Passenger Safety Concerns Highlighted
According to the Transport Department these bike taxi services allegedly lack proper driver verification valid permits insurance coverage and adequate safety measures for women passengers. The government claims that these shortcomings pose serious risks to commuter safety.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik Had Sought Immediate Action
State Transport Minister had written to the Maharashtra Cyber Department on May 12, demanding the immediate suspension of bike taxi services operated by Ola, Uber and Rapido, along with criminal action against the companies involved.
Following the minister’s directive the Cyber Department acted swiftly and issued notices to Apple and Google.
The Maharashtra government’s latest move is expected to have a major impact on app-based bike taxi services in the state, with stricter restrictions likely in the coming days.
