New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday claimed that the Centre would be compelled to withdraw its E20 ethanol-blended fuel policy within five days if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) loses the upcoming elections in Goa and Uttar Pradesh.
Addressing party workers and supporters, Kejriwal alleged that the E20 fuel initiative has imposed an additional financial burden on vehicle owners and questioned the government’s approach to its implementation. He argued that public opposition to the policy would be reflected in the electoral outcome and claimed that a defeat for the BJP would force the Union government to reconsider the decision.
“The government will have no option but to withdraw the E20 policy within five days if the BJP loses in Goa and Uttar Pradesh,” Kejriwal said, asserting that the issue has become a matter of public concern.
The E20 fuel programme involves blending 20% ethanol with petrol, a policy introduced by the Centre to reduce dependence on imported crude oil, lower carbon emissions, and support India’s biofuel and agricultural sectors. The government has maintained that the initiative will contribute to energy security and environmental sustainability while benefiting sugarcane farmers and ethanol producers.
However, critics have expressed concerns over the compatibility of older vehicles with higher ethanol blends, possible impacts on fuel efficiency, and the potential costs associated with upgrading vehicles or engines.
Kejriwal urged voters to consider issues affecting their daily lives, including fuel prices and transportation costs, while exercising their franchise in the upcoming elections. He also called for wider public consultation on major policy decisions that directly impact consumers.
The BJP has consistently defended the ethanol blending programme, describing it as an important step toward achieving India’s renewable energy goals and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Government officials have previously stated that vehicle manufacturers are adapting to support higher ethanol blends and that the transition is being implemented in a phased manner.
The remarks add a political dimension to the ongoing debate over ethanol-blended fuel, with the issue likely to feature prominently in campaign discussions ahead of the elections.
