Punjab Assembly passes resolution urging Centre to suspend mandatory rollout of E20 fuel
Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema also questioned why the implementation of the E20 fuel policy has been advanced as against the earlier target of implementing it in 2030
On Tuesday, the Punjab Assembly adopted a resolution urging the Centre to review and suspend the mandatory implementation of E20 ethanol blended fuel for vehicles while all concerns are thoroughly examined. The resolution was introduced by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government with party chief Arvind Kejriwal marching towards the Prime Minister's residence with over 2.30 lakh petitions against the policy, but he was halted by Delhi Police before staging a sit-in on Firoz Shah Road.
On the second day of the Monsoon session, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema moved the resolution and criticized the timely implementation of E20 petrol from April 2026, questioning why it was advanced compared to the initial target of 2030. Cheema highlighted that the U.S. produces 60% of the world's ethanol while India produces only 5% and accused the BJP-led central government of caving to U.S. interests at the expense of Indian consumers and vehicle owners.
The House expressed serious concern over the Centre's decision to mandate nationwide supply of E20 fuel without adequately protecting consumer interests, vehicle owners, and state governments. The resolution cited engine compatibility issues, accelerated wear and tear, reduced fuel efficiency and mileage, increased maintenance costs, possible warranty disputes, and diminished resale value as legitimate concerns.
It urged the Union government to conduct a comprehensive assessment of vehicle compatibility, fuel efficiency, and maintenance costs, and place the findings in the public domain through an independent committee comprising experts from various fields.
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