The Indian government has instructed app stores to remove three applications — BAT-BMS, Epoch-i-ion and Lossigy — from Android and iOS platforms. Officials cited concerns that the apps were being misused to interfere with e-rickshaw operations. Sources said the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology acted after receiving reports of sudden vehicle stoppages and service interruptions. E-rickshaw operators had complained of unexplained disruptions that raised safety issues for drivers and passengers. MeitY Secretary S Krishnan confirmed that the apps were identified recently and removed from Indian app stores. He noted that platforms must prevent distribution of software capable of harming public safety or enabling illegal activity. The government plans to engage further with app stores to reduce risks from potentially harmful applications. India has seen strong growth in electric rickshaws, which provide affordable last-mile transport in cities and towns. The incident highlights the need for tighter controls on digital tools that could affect vehicle systems.
