Congress demands an immediate review of the E20 petrol policy, alleging higher food prices, reduced mileage and vehicle compatibility concerns
New Delhi: The Congress on Friday demanded an immediate review of the Centre’s E20 petrol policy, alleging that the ethanol-blending programme is adding to household expenses while creating concerns over vehicle mileage and compatibility.
Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh accused the Modi government of pursuing an “anti-people” fuel policy and alleged that diverting sugarcane and grains towards ethanol production was contributing to higher food prices.
The Congree leader cited reported price increases of 40% in sugar over three months, along with rises in jaggery, rice and maize flour prices. He claimed 25 lakh tonnes of sugar-grade sugarcane had been diverted for ethanol production. He also raised concerns over reduced vehicle mileage and compatibility issues for vehicles not designed for E20 fuel.
The Congress has repeatedly opposed the rollout, arguing that it limits consumer choice and increases costs for vehicle owners and households. The party has also questioned why petrol prices have not fallen despite lower international crude prices and savings from ethanol blending.
The Congress Working Committee had earlier flagged concerns over vehicle compatibility, fuel contamination, consumer choice and the environmental impact of diverting sugarcane and maize for ethanol production.
Ramesh demanded that the government review the E20 policy and provide consumers with non-ethanol fuel options, saying a fuel policy that raises both vehicle and kitchen expenses was unacceptable.
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