Indian Government Removes Apps Amid Concerns Over Remote E-Rickshaw Shutdowns
A viral social media trend in India involves pranksters using the Chinese app BAT-BMS to remotely disable e-rickshaws by cutting power via Bluetooth, leaving drivers stranded and raising safety and livelihood concerns. The app, designed for battery management, exploits security gaps in many low-cost e-rickshaw batteries lacking password protection. Authorities, including Delhi and central governments, have launched investigations and ordered the removal of BAT-BMS and similar apps from app stores to address cybersecurity risks and prevent misuse. Police have also arrested suspects involved in extortion schemes linked to this vulnerability.
First-hand measurement across 15 sources
We measured how 15 outlets covered this story. Coverage leans balanced overall (Left 6%, Centre 90%, Right 4%). Overall sentiment is neutral (43/100). Lens Score 31/100 — low public interest.
Outlets analysed (first-hand measurement by TBN's Bias Engine):
- republicworld— balanced framing, neutral sentiment
- news18— balanced framing, neutral sentiment
- thestatesman— balanced framing, neutral sentiment
- freepressjournal— balanced framing, neutral sentiment
- firstpost— balanced framing, neutral sentiment
- indiatvnews— balanced framing, neutral sentiment
- thehindu— balanced framing, neutral sentiment
- opindia— balanced framing, neutral sentiment
AI Analysis
The article group presents a range of perspectives including government officials emphasizing regulatory and cybersecurity responses, affected drivers highlighting livelihood impacts, and technology experts explaining the app's intended use and vulnerabilities. Coverage is largely factual and focuses on public safety and policy actions without partisan framing, reflecting a consensus on the seriousness of the issue and the need for intervention.
The overall tone across the articles is serious and concerned, highlighting the negative consequences of the app misuse on drivers' safety and income. While some social media content frames the incidents as pranks, most coverage condemns the actions and underscores the risks involved. The sentiment is predominantly cautionary, with emphasis on government and law enforcement efforts to mitigate harm and improve security.