The Supreme Court is set to examine a petition questioning the implementation of 20 percent ethanol-blended petrol across India. The matter has been listed for hearing on 1 September before a bench led by Chief Justice D. Y. Chandrachud. The case arises from concerns that the E20 fuel blend, introduced to reduce reliance on crude oil and boost biofuel consumption, may not be compatible with many vehicles currently on Indian roads.
The petition, filed by advocate Akshay Malhotra, argues that motorists are effectively being forced to use E20 because conventional petrol is not available at many pumps. According to the plea, a significant number of cars and two‑wheelers are not designed to run on fuel containing 20 percent ethanol, and using it could damage engines or reduce fuel efficiency. Petitioners claim that authorities have not given consumers a choice and have failed to provide adequate information about the fuel they are purchasing.
The petitioner is seeking a direction to oil marketing companies and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry to ensure that ethanol-free petrol is available at all filling stations. The petition also asks the court to instruct pump operators to display ethanol content clearly so that consumers can make an informed choice. Without these measures, the plea says, vehicle owners risk being compelled to buy fuel that may shorten engine life and increase maintenance costs.
Key points: the hearing is scheduled for 1 September; the petition challenges the compulsory use of E20 fuel; it claims many vehicles are not compatible with such a high ethanol blend; it seeks orders to provide ethanol-free petrol nationwide; and it requests mandatory disclosure of ethanol content at pumps. These issues will now be weighed by the country’s highest court.
Once the hearing takes place, the Supreme Court could ask the central government and oil companies to respond to the allegations. Depending on the court’s decision, motorists might gain the option to choose standard petrol over E20 in the near future. Until then, vehicle owners are advised to follow the proceedings closely, as the outcome could impact fuel policy and vehicle maintenance practices.
- Supreme Court will hear a petition on 1 September challenging the nationwide rollout of 20 % ethanol-blended petrol (E20).
- The petition argues that many vehicles are not compatible with E20 and that owners are forced to use it due to lack of alternatives.
- Plea seeks availability of ethanol-free petrol at all fuel stations and clear labelling of ethanol content.
- Advocate Akshay Malhotra filed the case, raising concerns about engine damage and reduced efficiency.
- The court’s decision could influence fuel policy and give motorists a choice between E20 and regular petrol.
