Google has removed Paytm's mobile application from its mobile app store platform Play Store. The search engine giant has cited its policies on gaming and betting as the reason for the move.
The app, however, is still available on iOS, the play store run by Apple. The app could have been removed because of Paytm First Games, sources said.
Paytm, in a statement shared on Twitter, said its Android app is temporarily unavailable on Google's Play Store for new downloads or updates but will be back very soon. The company also assured that all the money with Paytm is safe and consumers will be able to use the app for their regular transactions as usual.
This is not the first time that Google has initiated such a step. In the past, Google had removed another payment application, Mobikwik, which was found to be redirecting its users to the Aarogya Setu app.
Sources pointed out that Google does not allow apps to redirect users to other platforms from within the apps and, in this case, Paytm was doing it for Paytm First Games, they said.
In a blog on September 18, Google said it doesn't allow online casinos or support 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,” the blog post read.
Google said the developer is always notified and the app removed till it complies with the guidelines.
“In the case where there are repeated policy violations, we may take more serious action which may include terminating Google Play Developer accounts,” the statement added.
While Google did not specify which service on the Paytm app was non-compliant, sources pointed fingers at Paytm First Games that offers cash prizes against participation in paid tournaments.
Earlier this week, Paytm got Sachin Tendulkar as the brand ambassador for its gaming services.
The platform is betting majorly on fantasy cricket leagues, giving competition to platforms like Dream11, Halaplay and Mobile Premier League.
Dream11 is not available on the Google Play Store.
Moneycontrol found that other Paytm applications like Paytm Money and Paytm for Business are still available on the Google Play Store.
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