A day after Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari challenged critics of E20 petrol to produce even one person whose vehicle was damaged because of ethanol-blended fuel, activist and entrepreneur Tehseen Poonawalla said he is ready to present six such people. However, Poonawalla said he has one condition. He wants the meeting with Gadkari to take place in front of the media and be live-streamed.
Why the Controversy Started
The government has made the sale of E20 petrol, which contains 20% ethanol, mandatory across the country.
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Many vehicle owners claim that using E20 has reduced fuel efficiency and caused damage to their vehicles, especially older models designed for E10 fuel. The government has rejected these claims, saying E20 is safe for compatible vehicles.
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Poonawalla Seeks Meeting With Gadkari
Poonawalla, who led a protest against E20 petrol at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, said he wanted to take affected vehicle owners to Gadkari's residence. However, he claimed Delhi Police advised him not to do so.
He said he has identified six people who believe their vehicles developed problems after using E20 petrol. He requested Gadkari to give him an official appointment so they could present their cases publicly.
Gadkari Defends E20 Petrol
In an interview with India Today TV, Gadkari dismissed allegations that E20 petrol damages vehicles. He challenged critics to name even one person whose car, bike, or scooter failed only because of ethanol-blended fuel. He also said any complaints could be investigated if evidence was provided.
Conflict of Interest Allegation
Nitin Gadkari also responded to allegations that his family benefits from the ethanol business. He said his family's stake in ethanol production is only 0.07%, adding that he does not receive any major financial benefit from the government's ethanol policy.
Poonawalla, however, questioned this claim and alleged there was a conflict of interest because members of Gadkari's family are involved in the ethanol business.
Why Some Vehicle Owners Are Concerned
The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme aims to reduce India's dependence on imported crude oil, support farmers, and lower carbon emissions. The government achieved its target of introducing E20 petrol across the country by the end of 2025.
While officials say E20 improves fuel quality and is safe for approved vehicles, many motorists claim they have experienced lower mileage, engine problems, rough idling, clogged fuel systems, and higher maintenance costs, especially in vehicles manufactured before 2023.
An Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) study has reportedly examined the impact of E20 on E10-compatible vehicles, although its findings have not yet been made public.
Protesters Demand More Choices
The protesters say they are not against ethanol blending, but they want better implementation of the policy. They argue that millions of older vehicles are not fully compatible with E20 fuel and should have access to suitable alternatives.
The government continues to maintain that properly serviced and compatible vehicles do not face major issues with E20 petrol. Meanwhile, activists are demanding an open discussion and public verification of the complaints raised by vehicle owners.
