MeitY asks Google, Apple to remove 7 apps over alleged misuse to disable e-rickshaw batteries: Sources
New Delhi, July 3
The Union Electronics and Information Technology Ministry has issued notices to Google Android and Apple iOS, directing them to remove seven applications from their respective app stores over the alleged misuse of the apps to shut down batteries in e-rickshaws and other vehicles, sources said.
According to sources, the action pertains to applications that were allegedly being misused to disable batteries installed in e-rickshaws and vehicles.
Among the applications identified are BAT-BMS, SMART BMS, and LOSSIGY, sources added.
The action comes after reports over the past few days of sudden stoppages and operational disruptions faced by e-rickshaw drivers. These applications were allegedly being used to interfere with the functioning of certain e-rickshaws, leading to unexpected interruptions in their operations and raising safety concerns for both drivers and passengers.
The Centre took serious note of the issue after complaints emerged from e-rickshaw operators regarding unexplained disruptions affecting their vehicles. The alleged misuse of the applications prompted authorities to examine the matter and take corrective action.
Explaining the issue, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), S Krishnan also said on Friday, "There are a couple of apps which came up to our notice yesterday. Both of them have been taken down from the app stores".
He further stated that app stores have a responsibility to ensure that applications made available to users do not pose risks to public safety or facilitate unlawful activities.
"The idea is that this is due care that the app stores have to exercise and we will take it up with the app stores to see that possibly damaging apps do not come up," he said.
India has witnessed rapid growth in the use of electric rickshaws as an affordable and environmentally friendly mode of transport, particularly for last-mile connectivity in urban and semi-urban areas.
The expansion of digital services and smartphone-based applications has also increased the need for stronger safeguards against malicious software that could compromise vehicles or enable fraud.
The government has not officially disclosed further technical details about the functioning of the applications.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm glad someone is finally looking into this. My uncle drives an e-rickshaw in Delhi and he's had issues with sudden battery shutdowns that left passengers stranded. It's not just about inconvenience, it's a safety hazard. The app stores should have better vetting processes.
Interesting how digital tools can be misused in unexpected ways. This is why app store responsibility matters, especially in countries like India where e-rickshaws are becoming essential for last-mile connectivity. A positive step for public safety.
While the government's action is necessary, I'm concerned about the lack of transparency. The article says technical details haven't been disclosed. How can we trust that the right apps are being targeted? More clarity is needed to avoid overreach.
E-rickshaw drivers already have a tough time with erratic charging infrastructure and traffic. Now this? 😤 It's good the government stepped in quickly. But I hope they also work with app stores to set up better screening so such apps don't reappear under different names.
Impressive that India's authorities are taking digital safety seriously. In countries with less regulation, this kind of app could cause chaos. The MeitY Secretary's point about "due care" from app stores is spot on. Global tech companies need to be held accountable everywhere, not just in the West.
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