Arvind Kejriwal to march to PM Modi’s residence against E20 petrol, targets Centre over ethanol policy

AAP national convenor and former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal will lead a march to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence on Tuesday with 100 supporters to submit petitions opposing the nationwide rollout of E20 petrol.

Kejriwal alleged that the Centre was promoting ethanol-blended fuel under pressure from US President Donald Trump, claiming India had agreed to import ethanol from the US and accusing the government of pursuing a “hidden agenda” by continuing to push E20 fuel.

He said he decided to personally submit the petitions after receiving no response to a letter sent last month seeking an appointment with the Prime Minister.

In the letter, Kejriwal urged the government to ensure petrol pumps offer both pure petrol and E20 fuel, while also demanding a reduction in the price of ethanol-blended petrol.

Opposition to E20 fuel

The rollout of E20 petrol — a blend of 80% petrol and 20% ethanol — has drawn criticism from opposition parties, transport bodies and consumer groups, who argue that many older vehicles are not designed to run on the higher ethanol blend.

Critics have raised concerns over reduced fuel efficiency, increased maintenance costs and the possibility of engine or fuel system damage, while questioning who would be liable if such problems arise.

Gadkari defends policy

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari recently told Parliament that E20 fuel could reduce fuel economy by 2% to 6%, depending on a vehicle’s age and engine type.

However, he said E20 offers better acceleration, improved driving performance and around 30% lower carbon emissions compared with E10 petrol.

Transport unions join protest

The controversy has also triggered protests from transport organisations. Several Delhi-based transport bodies, including the Delhi Taxi and Tourist Transporters and Tour Operators Association, have announced a march to Parliament demanding that the government withdraw its decision to make E20 the primary petrol available.

Harish Sabharwal, national president of the All India Motor Transport Congress, said the protest was aimed at opposing the government’s move to make E20 fuel the only option for consumers.