The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has directed Google and Apple to remove seven mobile applications from their respective app stores following allegations that they were being misused to remotely disable batteries fitted in e-rickshaws and other electric vehicles, in a move aimed at addressing growing concerns over public safety and digital security.
The action follows complaints from e-rickshaw drivers who reported sudden vehicle shutdowns and unexplained operational disruptions, prompting the government to investigate the role of battery management applications in the incidents. Authorities believe the alleged misuse of the apps could interfere with the functioning of battery management systems (BMS), potentially leaving vehicles stranded and creating safety risks for drivers and passengers.
Apps Identified for Removal
According to sources, the applications identified include BAT-BMS, SMART BMS and LOSSIGY, among others. MeitY has issued notices to both the Google Play Store and Apple's App Store seeking their removal from public download.
The reported action expands an earlier intervention by the government, under which two applications linked to the controversy had already been removed after they came to the ministry's attention.
Government Emphasises App Store Responsibility
Speaking on the issue, MeitY Secretary S. Krishnan said the government expects app marketplaces to exercise due diligence before hosting applications that could pose risks to users.
He said the ministry would engage with app store operators to ensure "possibly damaging apps" are prevented from appearing on their platforms.
Safety Concerns Grow With Rising EV Adoption
India has witnessed rapid growth in the adoption of electric rickshaws, particularly for last-mile connectivity across urban and semi-urban markets. The alleged misuse of battery management applications has therefore raised broader concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities in connected electric mobility systems.
Reports suggest some battery management applications could exploit weak security or Bluetooth-enabled battery management systems in certain lithium-ion battery packs, enabling unauthorised interference if adequate safeguards are absent. However, investigations into the exact extent of the alleged misuse remain ongoing.
Wider Push for Digital Security
The latest action reflects a broader shift in India's digital security approach, with regulators increasingly focusing not only on data privacy but also on software capable of interfering with connected devices and critical transport infrastructure.
As electric mobility expands across the country, experts say stronger cybersecurity standards for battery management systems, app ecosystems and connected vehicle technologies will become increasingly important to ensure user safety and maintain public confidence in the EV ecosystem. |
