The directors of Rapido, a major app-based bike taxi aggregator, have been booked by Mumbai Police for allegedly operating illegal two-wheeler taxi services without the required licenses. The action was initiated following a complaint by the Regional Transport Office (RTO), citing violations under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
According to officials, despite repeated warnings, the company continued to deploy private two-wheelers for commercial use—a practice that remains unauthorised under Maharashtra’s current transport policies. The complaint, registered at Kurla Police Station, names Rapido’s directors and key managerial personnel.
Violation of Licensing Norms
The FIR alleges that Rapido used vehicles with white number plates (meant for private use) to ferry passengers commercially without obtaining the necessary permits. “The company was warned several times but persisted in operating illegally, undermining regulated taxi and autorickshaw services,” said a transport department official.
The Maharashtra government has not yet formalised guidelines for the legal operation of two-wheeler taxis, unlike states such as Goa or Telangana. In 2023, the Bombay High Court had even stayed permissions previously granted to such platforms, pending a final policy framework.
Despite this, app-based bike taxis continued to function in parts of Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Thane under the radar, posing regulatory, safety, and insurance concerns.
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This is not the first legal brush for bike taxi aggregators. In early 2024, the Supreme Court refused to lift the stay on their operations in Maharashtra, stating that the absence of state rules cannot allow commercial exploitation of private vehicles.
The police have invoked sections of the Motor Vehicles Act and relevant IPC provisions relating to cheating and endangering public safety. Rapido is yet to issue an official response.
Transport authorities stated that enforcement drives would continue across the city, and errant riders partnering with such apps may face license suspensions, fines, or vehicle seizures.