Paytm app removed from the Google Play Store
According to CNBC-TV18, Google had notified developers about this a few days ago. It also said that it is working with Paytm to bring the app back on the Play Store.
A search for the Paytm app on the Play Store confirmed the app’s removal. Other apps from the company like Paytm Money, Paytm Mall and Paytm for Business are still available for download.
On September 18, Google released a statement saying that it doesn’t allow online casinos or support any unregulated gambling apps that facilitate sports betting.
“This includes if an app leads consumers to an external website that allows them to participate in paid tournaments to win real money or cash prizes, it is a violation of our policies.”
"When an app violates these policies, we notify the developer of the violation and remove the app from Google Play until the developer brings the app into compliance. And in the case where there are repeated policy violations, we may take more serious action which may include terminating Google Play Developer accounts. Our policies are applied and enforced on all developers consistently," the blog post added.
We have reached out to Google for a statement.
Big blow to Paytm ahead of IPL starting tomorrow
Paytm First Games – which recently onboarded Sachin Tendulkar as its brand ambassador – is the Indian digital payments’ leaders foray into the fantasy gaming segment.
Google’s ban is a huge blow to the app as the IPL begins tomorrow and Paytm First Games was hoping to cash in on the cricketing event. Paytm First Games had an elaborate plan to establish its stronghold in the fantasy gaming market. The app aims to get over 100 million users during the upcoming Indian Premier League and has planned over 200 live events on the platform over the next six months.
The other popular fantasy gaming app Dream11 has never been available on the Playstore. Last year in June, the Bombay High Court had dismissed a PIL filed by an advocate and said that Dream11 is a game of skill and not of chance.
The PIL had claimed that the online fantasy league game encourages gambling.
Earlier, the Punjab and Haryana High Court too had declared the Dream11 format of fantasy sports as legal. The order said that the game requires considerable skill and judgment. This order was further ratified by the Supreme Court.
Google takes Paytm off Playstore on policy violations
BENGALURU: Google has taken digital payments behemoth Paytm off its Play Store on Friday, stating that the app was allowing customers to play online games, which facilitated sports betting.
Earlier today, Google India as part of its blog released its new guidelines against gambling policies in the country.
This is the first time Paytm’s main app has been removed from the Google Play Store, while other applications such as its wealth management app, Paytm money; merchant app, Paytm for Business; movie ticketing application, Paytm Insider, continue to be on the Play Store at present.
“We have the same goals for our gambling policy. We don’t allow online casinos or support any unregulated gambling apps that facilitate sports betting. This includes if an app leads consumer to an external website that allows them to participate in paid tournaments to win real money or cash prizes, it is a violation of our policies,“ said search major Google on its blog.
Google also added that it has these policies to protect users from potential harm.
“When an app violates these policies, we notify the developer of the violation and remove the app from Google Play until the developer brings the app into compliance. And in the case where there are repeated policy violations, we may take more serious action which may include terminating Google Play Developer accounts. Our policies are applied and enforced on all developers consistently," said Google India.
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