Veteran Developer Proposes Bitcoin Hard Fork, Sparking Controversy Over Satoshi Coin Reassignment

Bitcoin developer Paul Sztorc has unveiled a proposal for a hard fork called eCash, aiming to launch a separate Bitcoin chain in August 2026. The plan includes giving existing bitcoin holders equivalent tokens in the new network, as well as introducing Drivechains, a scaling architecture that allows for seamless movement of BTC between the main chain and sidechains. However, the community is criticizing the funding aspect, which involves reassigning coins linked to Bitcoin's missing founder, Satoshi Nakamoto. The proposed hard fork has sparked controversy, with some calling it theft and expressing concerns over the precedent it sets for the future of BTC holdings. Sztorc argues that the plan is necessary to bring investors on board and ensure the project's success, but the industry response has been largely negative, with critics condemning the move as disrespectful and potentially risky for all BTC holders.