E20 Fuel Row Escalates As Kejriwal Campaign Targets Gadkari Amid Online Memes

A political campaign against ethanol-blended petrol, commonly known as E20 fuel, has gained momentum with Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal announcing a nationwide outreach programme, while Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari prepares legal action over alleged deepfake content circulating online. The controversy has intensified after a wave of social media posts and memes targeted Gadkari over the government’s ethanol-blending policy. The online campaign has drawn comparisons with the recently emerged ‘Cockroach Janta Party’ movement, a satirical digital campaign that gained attention during protests linked to the NEET examination controversy.

Kejriwal on Monday announced a ‘National Town Hall’ scheduled for the weekend to mobilise public support against the E20 fuel policy. He said the AAP would collect public petitions and submit more than two lakh signatures to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the government to reconsider aspects of the ethanol-blended petrol programme. “The youth of this country have made an arrogant government bow down, resulting in Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. Now, I request the Prime Minister to also resolve the E20 issue before it turns into a massive protest,” Kejriwal said during a press conference, according to news agency ANI.

The AAP leader’s remarks came days after former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned from his post following nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak controversy. Kejriwal drew a parallel between the two issues, suggesting that public pressure through social media and protests could influence government decisions. Meanwhile, Gadkari has sought legal action against social media companies over deepfake videos allegedly linking him to claims of personal financial benefit from the E20 policy.

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The minister has reportedly received court approval to pursue cases against platforms over the circulation of such content. The government has repeatedly defended the E20 policy, stating that ethanol blending is aimed at reducing India’s dependence on imported crude oil, supporting farmers and lowering carbon emissions. Officials have denied claims that ethanol-blended fuel causes engine failures, though they have acknowledged that vehicles may experience a marginal reduction in fuel efficiency. The E20 programme involves blending 20 per cent ethanol with petrol.

The policy has been promoted as part of India’s energy transition strategy, with authorities arguing that increased ethanol use can provide economic and environmental benefits. However, concerns have been raised by some vehicle owners and critics over compatibility issues, mileage impact and the readiness of older vehicles for higher ethanol blends. The growing debate has also highlighted the increasing role of social media campaigns in shaping public discussions around government policies. Satirical movements and online communities have gained significant attention by using memes and digital content to raise concerns and mobilise public opinion.

Gadkari’s legal move reflects the government’s growing concern over misinformation and manipulated content on digital platforms. Deepfake technology has become a major challenge worldwide, with public figures increasingly seeking legal remedies against digitally altered videos and misleading narratives. As Kejriwal’s campaign gains traction and the government continues defending the ethanol policy, the E20 debate is expected to remain a politically sensitive issue. The coming days could see further exchanges between opposition leaders, government representatives and online groups as discussions over fuel policy and consumer concerns continue.

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