Former Delhi Chief Minister and national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party, Arvind Kejriwal, has demanded that the Central Government immediately cease the nationwide rollout of 20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol, known as E20. This request follows increased public concerns regarding fuel efficiency and potential adverse effects on vehicles. Kejriwal accused the government of misleading citizens regarding the nature of the programme, referring to it as merely an “experiment” during a Supreme Court hearing.

In a video statement issued on Friday, Kejriwal expressed that dissatisfaction among vehicle owners has reached alarming levels. He questioned why the government is proceeding with E20’s implementation when its long-term effects are still under scrutiny. He stated, “There is huge public anger regarding 20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol,” referring to comments made by the Central Government’s Attorney General in June that future actions would hinge on the results of this alleged “experiment.”

Emphasising the size of the initiative, Kejriwal noted that implementing such a policy nationwide, affecting a population of 1.4 billion, contradicts the typical definition of an experiment. He posed rhetorical questions regarding the necessity and implications of mandating E20 across all vehicles given ongoing public discontent.

Concerns Over Fuel Efficiency and Vehicle Issues

Kejriwal highlighted concerns raised by consumers about diminished mileage and mechanical problems. He referenced statements from a senior executive at Bharat Petroleum, suggesting reports of a 30 per cent reduction in fuel efficiency associated with E20, contradicting claims from the government. He questioned whether compensation would be provided for individuals facing vehicle breakdowns, stressing the financial strain on owners resulting from decreased mileage.

Many vehicle owners have reportedly experienced increased maintenance costs, including engine damage and rusting. Kejriwal argued that if fuel efficiency has indeed fallen by 30 per cent, it is only logical that the price of the ethanol-blended petrol should also decrease by a similar percentage. He maintained that the government cannot charge the same price while offering inferior mileage, leading to heightened expenses for consumers.

Amid these concerns, he urged the government to reconsider its position, asserting that it is the duty of elected officials to heed the public’s complaints. He announced plans to reach out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, advocating for the withdrawal of the E20 policy.

Debate Surrounding E20 Fuel Programme Intensifies

The discourse around E20 fuel has become increasingly contentious. India achieved the target of a 20 per cent ethanol blend in petrol by 2025 ahead of schedule. The government has framed this initiative as vital for reducing crude oil imports, enhancing energy security, lowering carbon emissions, and providing farmers with additional income opportunities.

However, controversies escalated when allegations surfaced that the Centre had labelled the E20 initiative as an “ongoing experiment” during court proceedings. The Ministry of Law and Justice has since refuted these claims, asserting that the Attorney General did not describe the programme in such terms, and insisted that the reports misrepresent the government’s official position.

Additionally, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has defended the programme’s scientific basis, stating that it adheres to globally accepted practices from countries like the United States, Brazil, and Japan. Despite these assurances, consumer apprehensions persist. A recent survey by LocalCircles indicated that 66 per cent of more than 44,000 respondents reported a decline in fuel efficiency exceeding 10 per cent since early 2025, with 55 per cent acknowledging increased wear and tear on their vehicles.

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