Maharashtra to intensify background checks of app-based drivers after ATS action against Rapido rider in Mumbai
The move follows an action by the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) against a Rapido bike taxi driver in Mumbai’s Mahim area.
The Maharashtra Transport Department plans to strengthen background checks and document verification for drivers working with app-based ride-hailing services like Rapido, Ola and Uber, following an Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) action against a Rapido bike taxi driver in Mumbai's Mahim area. The decision was made during a meeting on Tuesday, with state transport minister Pratap Sarnaik instructing his department to conduct thorough checks on drivers' backgrounds, licenses and other mandatory documents.
Sarnaik also directed officials to take stringent legal action against those found violating laws, including registering criminal cases where necessary. The meeting was called in response to the ATS action, which involved an individual allegedly circulating objectionable content through social media accounts. Preliminary investigations did not find direct links between the individual and any organization in Pakistan.
Sarnaik emphasized the need for rigorous enforcement and compliance monitoring of app-based transport services to ensure drivers and operators adhere to the legal framework. He also called for potential amendments to existing laws to provide better regulation and supervision of these services by the State Transport Authority.
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