GUWAHATI: The Centre has directed the removal of two mobile applications- BAT BMS and Epoch Li-ion- from rom both the Android Play Store and Apple App Store after concerns emerged that the apps were being misused to remotely disable certain e-rickshaws equipped with vulnerable battery management systems (BMS).
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The move comes after reports and viral videos surfaced showing pranksters using the applications to switch off e-rickshaws while they were in operation, leaving drivers stranded and unable to restart their vehicles.
According to reports, Information Technology Secretary S Krishnan confirmed that the government had acted immediately after the issue came to its notice.
BAT BMS and Epoch Li-ion are battery management applications that connect to compatible lithium-ion batteries via Bluetooth. While they are designed to manage battery functions, authorities said some users exploited the apps by connecting to nearby e-rickshaw batteries and remotely activating the discharge switch, instantly shutting down the vehicle.
The process reportedly involved opening the application, connecting to the nearest battery through Bluetooth, and tapping the discharge option. Once disabled, the e-rickshaw could only be restarted using the same application, leaving many drivers, especially those without smartphones or technical knowledge, unable to resume work.
The issue gained widespread attention after a viral Instagram video showed an e-rickshaw driver distraught after his vehicle was allegedly switched off by a stranger. The incident highlighted the financial impact on drivers, many of whom depend on daily earnings and are forced to spend time and money seeking mechanical assistance.
Krishnan said the episode underscored the need for stronger scrutiny of applications before they are made available on digital marketplaces. He added that the government would engage with app store operators to strengthen checks on software that could pose security risks or be vulnerable to misuse.
Officials reportedly clarified that there is currently no allegation that either application was developed with malicious intent. Instead, the focus of the investigation is on whether weak security protections in certain low-cost battery management systems allowed the apps' legitimate functions to be exploited.
The Delhi government has also initiated an inquiry into the matter. Transport Minister Pankaj Singh has directed the Transport Department to verify claims regarding the BAT BMS application following public complaints, although no formal written complaint has yet been received.
