Arvind Kejriwal, the national convener of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has accused the Narendra Modi-led central government of using coercive tactics to enforce the adoption of E-20 petrol. During a press conference held on July 29, 2026, he claimed that this policy would potentially render approximately 30 crore vehicles manufactured before 2023 obsolete, labelling the government’s approach as “hooliganism.”

Kejriwal expressed concerns that several automobile manufacturers are being intimidated into compliance regarding the E-20 fuel regulations. He mentioned that he reached out to 29 automobile companies to determine if E-20 fuel could be safely used in older vehicles and if they would provide compensation in case of breakdowns or diminished fuel efficiency. While he did not receive any official responses, he spoke to representatives from nine companies who reportedly confirmed their apprehensions.

According to Kejriwal, officials from these companies stated that they are fearful of governmental reprisals. He quoted them as saying, “If we speak out, we are finished,” further asserting that the Modi administration would threaten to shut down their plants or initiate raids by the Enforcement Directorate if they voiced opposition to the E-20 mandate.

Concerns Over Environmental Impact

The AAP leader raised questions about the environmental implications of the government’s push for ethanol-blended fuel, suggesting there are negligible benefits concerning foreign exchange and asserting that it contributes to groundwater depletion. Kejriwal challenged the government’s rationale, asking, “Why is Modi ji so adamant?”

He also indicated that the party had planned a town hall meeting to discuss E-20 but faced police intervention at the Constitution Club, where permission for the event was revoked. He noted that they historically did not require formal permissions for indoor gatherings and demanded the government reconsider its stance on E-20, stating they would compel a reversal if necessary.

In response to inquiries regarding protests by the alleged ‘Cockroach Janta Party,’ Kejriwal expressed his party’s support for the right to protest, stating, “They should protest; we are in their support.” He highlighted concerns about promises made by ministers to retract police complaints, questioning their sincerity.

Criticism of Current Administration’s Performance

During the press briefing, Kejriwal did not shy away from criticising the current administration for failing to manage basic infrastructure and addressing waterlogging issues in Delhi. He remarked that it has been two years since the current government assumed office, claiming that the situation has deteriorated significantly compared to his tenure.

Turning to social welfare initiatives, Kejriwal critiqued the ‘Lakshmi Yojana’ scheme, arguing that the eligibility criteria were purposely crafted to exclude the vast majority of women. He pointed out that despite there being approximately 1.25 crore women in Delhi, the scheme purportedly aims to assist only 17 lakh women, calling it a “hollow promise.”

Through these statements, Kejriwal sought to highlight what he perceives as the government’s failure in both policy and governance, reinforcing his party’s position opposing the central administration’s actions.

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