Government Cracks Down on Apps Misused for E-Rickshaw Shutdowns

New Delhi: In a significant move to protect public safety and livelihoods, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has directed Google and Apple to remove seven battery management system (BMS) apps from their platforms. These apps are allegedly being used in pranks and malicious acts to remotely shut down e-rickshaws and other electric vehicles.

Apps Targeted in the Crackdown

The apps in question include BAT-BMS, SMART BMS, LOSSIGY, and others. Officials say they exploit Bluetooth connectivity in poorly secured battery packs to interfere with power output, leaving drivers stranded mid-journey. The action follows viral videos showing e-rickshaws being disabled remotely, causing major inconvenience to operators who rely on daily earnings.

Background and Government Response

The issue gained attention after reports of Chinese-linked BMS apps being misused. MeitY Secretary S Krishnan confirmed the government’s proactive stance, noting that some apps have already been taken down. The ministry has warned that any application enabling remote vehicle interference will face strict action.

BMS apps are meant to monitor battery health, but weak security features make them vulnerable to misuse. Low-cost electric vehicles are particularly at risk due to lack of proper authentication.

Broader Implications

This crackdown is part of the Centre’s ongoing efforts to address security threats from certain apps. Since 2020, India has banned hundreds of apps over national security and data protection concerns. The latest directive emphasizes protecting public safety and preventing disruption to essential services like e-rickshaw transport.

Drivers and operators have welcomed the move, hoping it will curb such disruptive pranks and ensure smoother operations in the growing electric vehicle sector.