Google Playstore has pulled down Paytm and Paytm First Games for alleged violation of gambling policies.

CNBC-TV18 has learnt that Google had notified Paytm developers a few days back on this issue and is in constant touch with them regarding the digital wallet and e-commerce app.

"We don’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," reads a statement issued by Suzanne Frey, Vice President, Product, Android Security and Privacy.

"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," reasons the statement further.

Redirecting users from one application to another is not permitted on the Playstore. This is the reason 'Remove China Apps' was permanently pulled down. Even Mobikwik found itself in a similar situation when they flashed Aarogya Setu ad banner on their app.

@Paytm & @PaytmFirstGames pulled down from Google Playstore@GoogleIndia cites Violation of Google Play gambling policies & says we don’t allow online casinos or support any unregulated gambling apps that facilitate sports betting@MugdhaCNBCTV18 @ShereenBhan @vijayshekhar pic.twitter.com/Zj4QivQ45A

— Megha Vishwanath (@MeghaVishwanath) September 18, 2020

First Published:Sept 18, 2020 2:07 PM IST