Maharashtra Requests Removal of Uber, Ola and Rapido Apps

The Maharashtra government requested that Google and Apple remove Uber, Ola, and Rapido from their app stores on May 16, 2024 [1, 2].

This move signals a tightening of regulatory oversight on the gig economy in India. By targeting the digital distribution of these platforms, the state is attempting to force compliance from ride-hailing companies that have historically bypassed local transport laws.

The Transport Department of Maharashtra said that the platforms are operating passenger transport services via bike taxis without obtaining valid permissions [1, 2]. According to the government, these companies have failed to secure necessary government approvals or maintain compliance with Transport Department regulations [1, 2].

While some reports suggested a complete ban on all services provided by the three companies, the government's action is focused specifically on unauthorized bike-taxi services [1, 2]. The request to the app stores serves as a mechanism to curb the growth of these specific services within the state's borders, a strategy that targets the software interface rather than just the drivers on the road.

This regulatory conflict highlights the ongoing tension between traditional transport laws and the rapid expansion of app-based mobility. The state said that the lack of authorization creates safety and legal risks for passengers and operators alike [1, 2].

Uber, Ola, and Rapido have not yet provided a public response to the specific request for app store removal. The state continues to monitor the platforms for compliance with existing transport mandates [1, 2].