Maharashtra govt takes cognisance of aggregated cab drivers arm-twisting customers for tips

Taking note of the arm-twisting tactics of taxi aggregators to extort tips from customers, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Thursday (June 11, 2026) directed the transport commissioner to take action against responsible app-based taxi companies. It also recently announced that a new aggregator policy will be introduced for this sector.

“The Minister immediately took notice of the request raised by Kalyan Lok Sabha MP Dr. Shrikant Eknath Shinde regarding incidents related to app-based taxi and ride-hailing services. These incidents include drivers extorting tips from passengers, forcing them to pay additional amounts and financially exploiting passengers by taking advantage of their hardships,” an official said.

Authorities said that in the last few days, cases have been reported where drivers demand additional tips or extra payments after accepting a vehicle, and if these payments are not made, the trip is canceled. “It caused mental distress to the passengers. In response to these growing concerns, MP Dr. Shrikant Shinde expressed his strong displeasure through social media and urged the state government to intervene immediately,” said Shrikant Shinde’s party member.

Mr Sarnaik said the Transport Ministry would implement measures to curb arbitrary practices by app-based taxi and ride-hailing companies. “Customers have the right to receive transparent, fair and safe service. Holding passengers hostage in times of need, exploiting their difficulties for financial gain and forcing them to pay additional fees is a serious violation of consumer rights. Such behavior is not only an unethical business practice but also akin to holding customers for ransom,” Shinde said.