Karnataka Congress Chief Urges Centre To Withdraw E20 Petrol Amid Vehicle Damage Claims

Karnataka Congress President BK Hariprasad on Saturday demanded that the Centre roll back the rollout of 20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol (E20), alleging that the fuel is causing vehicle damage, reduced mileage and higher maintenance costs for consumers. Calling the nationwide rollout an "experiment at the expense of motorists," Hariprasad claimed the policy has imposed an unfair financial burden on vehicle owners.

In a post on X, Hariprasad said motorists across the country have reported widespread vehicle breakdowns following the introduction of E20 petrol. He alleged that many consumers are experiencing a noticeable drop in fuel efficiency while also facing increased repair and servicing expenses. According to him, the combination of lower mileage and rising maintenance costs has left vehicle owners frustrated.

Stepping up his criticism of the Narendra Modi-led government, the Karnataka Congress chief questioned why fuel prices had not been reduced despite the increased use of ethanol blending. He argued that consumers are paying the same—or in some cases more—for fuel while receiving lower mileage and incurring additional repair costs. "If people are paying the same—or more—for fuel while getting lower mileage and facing repair bills, serious questions must be answered. This is a scam," Hariprasad said.

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The Centre has been promoting ethanol blending as part of its strategy to reduce India's dependence on imported crude oil, improve energy security and support the domestic sugarcane industry. Under the ethanol blending programme, petrol is mixed with ethanol, a biofuel produced primarily from sugarcane and other agricultural feedstocks. The government has accelerated the adoption of E20 fuel across the country as part of its broader clean energy and sustainability goals.

Vehicle manufacturers and the government have maintained that newer vehicles designed or certified for E20 fuel are compatible with the higher ethanol blend. However, concerns have periodically been raised regarding the performance of older vehicles and fuel efficiency, prompting debates over the pace of implementation and consumer preparedness. Hariprasad's remarks add to the political criticism surrounding the rollout, with the Congress leader urging the Centre to reconsider the policy in light of the alleged impact on motorists.

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