The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a Public Interest Litigation challenging the nationwide rollout of 20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol (E20), clearing the way for the government’s ambitious blending programme.
A bench led by Chief Justice of India B R Gavai declined to interfere with the policy, rejecting claims that motorists were being forced to use E20 fuel despite large numbers of vehicles on Indian roads not being designed for it.
Senior Advocate Shadan Farasat, appearing for the petitioner, argued that E20 had effectively become the only option available to consumers without formal notification or adequate awareness. “We don’t want E20 to go away. We just want options,” he told the court. The petition had sought directions for ethanol-free petrol to remain available, mandatory labelling of ethanol content at pumps, and measures to inform consumers about compatibility.
The Attorney General, opposing the plea, questioned the motives behind the litigation. “Who is the petitioner? There is a huge lobby behind these,” he remarked, stressing that the policy was adopted after due consideration. He further said, “Someone from outside the country will dictate what petrol we
should use?”
Also read: E20 petrol can reduce car fuel efficiency by 2-5 pc, say experts
He underlined the policy’s benefits for sugarcane farmers and the rural economy, warning against undermining those gains.
Ethanol blending has been a central plank of India’s energy and agricultural strategy. The government advanced its target of 20 per cent blending from 2030 to 2025, citing benefits such as reduced oil imports, lower carbon emissions, and additional income streams for farmers. The programme, however, has drawn criticism over concerns about vehicle compatibility, mileage loss, and long-term mechanical effects in older engines.
The Court’s refusal to entertain the petition leaves the nationwide rollout of E20 unchanged. It did not issue any directions to the government or the oil marketing companies.
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