New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the nationwide rollout of 20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol (E20), which alleged that millions of Indian motorists were being forced to use fuel not designed for their vehicles.
As per The Economic Times, a bench led by Chief Justice B R Gavai heard the plea filed by petitioner Akshay Malhotra, who had sought directions to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas to ensure ethanol-free petrol remains available across the country. The plea also demanded mandatory labelling of ethanol content at fuel pumps and a nationwide study on the impact of E20 on non-compliant vehicles.
Senior Counsel Shadan Farasat, appearing for the petitioner, argued that consumers were left without options and that many vehicles—particularly those manufactured before 2023—were not designed for high ethanol blends, risking engine damage and mileage drops.
Opposing the plea, the Attorney General said consumers could not dictate petrol composition, adding that the government’s decision was benefiting sugarcane farmers and supporting India’s energy security goals.
Industry body SIAM has maintained that E20 is safe, though mileage may dip by 2-4 per cent. Maruti Suzuki and other carmakers have also assured warranty cover, while NITI Aayog has projected annual savings of $4 billion from the programme.
The rollout aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s target of achieving 20 per cent ethanol blending by 2025, part of India’s push towards reducing oil imports and cutting carbon emissions. The Centre aims to achieve 30 per cent ethanol blending by 2030.
