It also clarified that offering cashbacks and vouchers alone do not constitute a violation of its Google Play gambling policies. Paytm has been alleging that its app was removed for launching a UPI cashback campaign on its app called ‘Paytm Cricket League’ and that Google also runs similar schemes on its own apps.
Sources within Google said that Paytm the app was taken down after multiple warnings to the company and the main issue is around daily fantasy sports which is akin to betting and involves high risk and real money. “Google enforces its policies in a standard fashion across all the apps there is no reason to single anyone out,” said a source who did not wish to be identified.
“We enforce our policies very thoughtfully to provide a safe and secure experience for consumers, while also giving developers the platform and tools they need to build sustainable businesses. In the case of 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 statement from Google said.
On the other hand, a statement from Paytm alleged that Google de-listed Paytm app on September 18 “without an opportunity to respond” after its Paytm Cricket League was launched on September 11.
“We maintain that our cashback campaign was within guidelines, as well as all laws of the land. We did not break any rules and there was no violation. It is not related to gambling in any manner whatsoever,” Paytm said adding that similar cashback is being offered by Google Pay too.