Govt orders Google, Apple to remove Chinese BAT-BMS App after viral e-rickshaw shutdown videos

/Mangalore Today News Network/ News18

New Delhi, Jul 3, 2026: The government has ordered the removal of the BAT-BMS app from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store over security concerns, following viral videos alleging that the Chinese application was being used to remotely disable e-rickshaws.

Earlier in the day, the Delhi government ordered an investigation into claims that lithium battery-powered e-rickshaws were being locked remotely through the BAT-BMS app, leaving drivers stranded on roads.

The Transport Department and Delhi Police were asked to verify the allegations.

Delhi Transport Minister Pankaj Singh had said the government became aware of the issue through social media and warned that strict action would be taken if the claims were found to be true.

The controversy gained attention after several e-rickshaw drivers alleged that their vehicles were being remotely disabled, disrupting their livelihoods. In Moradabad, one driver broke down after his e-rickshaw was allegedly locked through the app, while a social media influencer called for an immediate ban on the application.

In a separate development, police in Ujjain arrested a man accused of remotely disabling e-rickshaws using a mobile application and extorting money from drivers. A fraud investigation is underway.

Meanwhile, a live demonstration at a Tata Motors showroom showed that electric cars are not vulnerable to the alleged exploit. According to showroom Vice President Neeraj Mishra, EV cars use a closed-loop, encrypted Battery Management System (BMS), unlike some e-rickshaws that may be susceptible to Bluetooth-related vulnerabilities.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) said two apps, including BAT-BMS, have now been removed from app stores. Authorities said the decision was taken due to security concerns and the possibility of misuse, adding that the matter remains under investigation and is being closely monitored.

What Is The BAT-BMS App?

BAT-BMS is a mobile application designed to connect with the Battery Management System (BMS) fitted in lithium battery-powered e-rickshaws through Bluetooth. The app is typically used by manufacturers, dealers and service technicians to monitor battery health, check charging status, diagnose faults and configure battery settings.

The app recently came under scrutiny after videos circulated on social media claiming it could be used to remotely disable e-rickshaws. Several drivers alleged that their vehicles suddenly stopped working after being locked through the application, leaving them stranded. Some also claimed they were asked to pay money to have their vehicles unlocked.