NEW DELHI – India’s ambitious move towards a cleaner fuel economy has hit a legal roadblock. A lawsuit has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the government’s decision to exclusively sell E20 fuel, a blend of petrol and 20% ethanol. The lawsuit, brought by advocate Akshay Malhotra, reflects widespread discontent among vehicle owners who claim the new fuel has significantly reduced their vehicles’ mileage
The petition argues that the government’s policy infringes on consumer rights by eliminating their choice to purchase conventional petrol. The lawsuit demands that fuel stations across the country offer regular petrol (E0) alongside the E20 blend and that the ethanol content of the fuel be clearly labeled at the pumps.
In response to public concerns, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has issued statements to clarify its stance. The Ministry maintains that the decrease in mileage is minimal, affecting only certain vehicles with a drop of about 1-2%. It also claims that this minor loss in efficiency can be mitigated through engine tuning and the use of E20-compatible materials in vehicles. Furthermore, the government has given its assurance that the use of E20 fuel will not void existing vehicle insurance policies.
The government’s long-term plan is to continue with the E20 blend and not increase the ethanol content beyond this level until at least October 2026. However, the legal challenge highlights a critical disconnect between the government’s policy and consumer satisfaction. The outcome of this case will set a significant precedent for the future of fuel policy and consumer rights in India’s transition to renewable energy.