Two apps that let pranksters cut power to moving e-rickshaws over Bluetooth have been taken down from app stores, MeitY Secretary S Krishnan said on July 3, 2026.
Viral videos had shown people connecting to e-rickshaw batteries and stopping the vehicles mid-journey. Business Today reported that MeitY had probed two Chinese battery apps, BAT-BMS and Epoch Li-ion. Reports differ on the total, with some citing seven. Details are based on YourStory.
What happened
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Problem | Battery apps connecting over Bluetooth could switch discharge off |
| Apps named | BAT-BMS, Epoch Li-ion |
| Removed | Two, according to MeitY's Secretary |
| Next step | Government to raise it with Alphabet and Apple |
Why this is a safety issue
The underlying problem is hardware. Many budget e-rickshaws and electric two-wheelers use Chinese battery management systems that can be reached over Bluetooth. Removing an app does not fix an unprotected battery, so the risk may remain if other apps can connect.
Krishnan said: “App stores need to exercise due care.” The government plans to take this up with Alphabet and Apple so that similar apps do not reappear.
Why it matters for mobile shops
Shops sometimes install apps for customers, so avoid any battery or control app you cannot identify. E-rickshaw owners asking for help should contact the vehicle or battery seller about securing the Bluetooth connection, and should not rely on an app being removed.
