New Delhi, August 1, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday criticised the Centre’s ethanol-blended petrol policy and demanded that consumers be given the option to choose between pure petrol and E20 fuel at petrol pumps.
Addressing an AAP National Town Hall on E20 at the Constitution Club in Delhi, Kejriwal said the government should make E20 cheaper than regular petrol and reduce petrol prices below ₹84 per litre. He claimed the current policy was causing difficulties for vehicle owners and demanded a public discussion on the issue.
The event, according to AAP, saw participation from over seven lakh people online and offline.
Kejriwal alleged that many vehicle users had reported mileage reduction and maintenance issues after the introduction of E20 petrol. He cited a survey by LocalCircles, claiming that a section of respondents reported reduced mileage and engine-related problems. He also asked the government to release scientific and technical studies supporting the safety of E20 fuel.
He said vehicle owners should avoid purchasing petrol and diesel vehicles until E100-compatible vehicles become available in the country, claiming that future increases in ethanol blending could affect existing vehicles.
The AAP leader also questioned the economic benefits of ethanol blending and alleged that ethanol imports could increase after the implementation of E20. He claimed the policy was linked to international trade considerations, while the government has maintained that ethanol blending is aimed at reducing dependence on imported crude oil, supporting farmers and cutting emissions.
During the town hall, Kejriwal placed three demands before the Centre: availability of both pure petrol and E20 at fuel stations, a lower price for E20 compared to petrol, and a reduction in petrol prices.
Several participants at the event shared their personal experiences regarding vehicle performance and maintenance concerns related to E20 fuel.
The Centre has defended ethanol blending as part of India’s energy security strategy, with officials and industry representatives stating that vehicles designed for higher ethanol blends are required as the blending programme progresses.
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