Why Maharashtra has asked Apple, Google to remove Uber, Ola, Rapido apps
The notice from the Maharashtra Cyber Department has warned of action against Apple and Google if the apps are not deleted from their app stores
The Maharashtra government has issued notices to Apple and Google asking them to remove ride-hailing applications like Uber, Ola and Rapido from their app stores.
The move comes as part of the state government’s action against the alleged unauthorised bike taxi operations from Uber, Ola and Rapido. The notice was issued by the Maharashtra State Cyber Department.
What notice says
On May 15, the department asked the companies to “remove and disable access” to the applications from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. This came after Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik wrote to the Cyber Department on May 12.
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"It has been observed that certain app-based platforms are operating passenger transport services on a large scale through bike taxi operations without obtaining valid permissions, government approvals, or compliance with the rules and regulations prescribed by the Transport Department and the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act," the notice said.
"It has been reported that driver verification mechanisms, insurance protections, women's safety measures, and emergency response systems are highly inadequate. Further, the rash and negligent driving commonly associated with such bike taxi operations creates a substantial risk to public safety. Recently, a serious incident came to light wherein a bike taxi service operated through one of these applications allegedly resulted in the tragic death of a woman. A criminal case has been registered in this regard, and several similar cases have reportedly been registered across various parts of Maharashtra," it added.
The notice further warned of action against Apple and Google if the apps are not removed.
"Since your organisation has a physical presence and conducts business in India, it is subject to the jurisdiction of Indian laws. Failure to comply with directives from Indian law enforcement agencies may result in serious legal action against you. You are hereby warned that if any unlawful or disruptive incident occurs due to your failure to take timely action, you will be held liable," the notice said.