Opponents of the Centre’s E20 ethanol-blended fuel policy are set to stage a sit-in protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on Sunday, in what organisers describe as the first public demonstration against the government’s ethanol-blending programme. The protest is scheduled to begin at 2 pmalthough organisers said they are still awaiting final permission from the Delhi Police.
The demonstration is being led by political analyst Tehseen Poonawalla and political commentator Ratan Dhillonwho have criticised the nationwide rollout of E20 petrol and are demanding that consumers be given the freedom to choose between different fuel blends instead of what they describe as a de facto mandatory E20 regime.
Announcing the protest on social media, Poonawalla said the campaign seeks to highlight concerns over the government’s ethanol-blending policy, with organisers branding the movement as a protest against the alleged “Ethanol Scam.” They argue that motorists should have access to multiple fuel options rather than being limited to E20 at fuel stations.
Ratan Dhillon said preparations for the demonstration have been completed but noted that the group is awaiting formal clearance from the Delhi Police. According to him, police officials have indicated that permission could be withheld because of concerns over the size of the gathering.
The Centre has been promoting ethanol blending as part of its strategy to reduce crude oil imports, lower carbon emissions and support domestic sugarcane and biofuel production. Under the National Biofuel PolicyIndia has accelerated ethanol blending in petrol, with E20 fuel now being introduced across a growing number of retail fuel outlets.
However, critics argue that higher ethanol blends may affect fuel efficiency, increase maintenance costs for vehicles not specifically designed for E20, and reduce consumer choice. The government, on the other hand, maintains that automobile manufacturers have been preparing E20-compatible vehicles and that the transition is essential for improving energy security and reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.
The planned protest comes as public debate over the E20 rollout moves beyond online discussions to street demonstrations. Whether the gathering proceeds as scheduled will depend on the Delhi Police’s decision regarding permission and security arrangements.
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