In a significant crackdown, the Mumbai Police on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, filed cheating cases against popular bike taxi services Rapido and Uber. The companies stand accused of illegally operating and transporting passengers without the mandatory permission from the Maharashtra government, officials confirmed.

According to authorities, both Rapido and Uber bikes were functioning in clear violation of state regulations, prompting legal action under charges of cheating and unauthorized service operation. Despite the growing popularity of bike taxis for their affordability and convenience, the Maharashtra government has not granted approval for their commercial use within city limits.

The police move has sent shockwaves through Mumbai’s daily commuter base, many of whom depend on these services to navigate the city's congested roads. Industry observers have raised concerns about the lack of a clear regulatory framework for such app-based mobility services, urging the government to address the policy gap instead of resorting to blanket bans. Until further notice, Mumbai’s bike taxi riders and users face growing uncertainty.