Why Are Young Congress Members Protesting Against E20 Ethanol Fuel?
Protest Against E20 Ethanol-Blended Petrol
New Delhi: On Friday, members of the Indian Youth Congress (IYC) organized a demonstration against the government's E20 ethanol-blended petrol initiative, claiming it poses risks to vehicles while favoring ethanol producers.
The protest took place outside the IYC headquarters on Raisina Road, where participants donned masks of Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, chanted slogans, waved Congress flags, and displayed placards that read 'Ganne Ka Juice'.
To symbolize ethanol production, a sugarcane juice machine was present at the protest, and demonstrators tossed fake Rs 200 notes into the air.
A damaged motorcycle was hung from a tree to illustrate the alleged negative impact of E20 fuel on vehicle performance.
Protesters argued that the blending of ethanol is causing vehicle malfunctions, diminishing fuel efficiency, and damaging fuel systems, urging that consumers should have the choice to purchase unblended petrol.
Delhi Youth Congress president Akshay Lakra stated, 'The automobile sector has faced significant setbacks due to the rollout of E20 petrol. High-end vehicles are breaking down on the streets.'
Lakra further claimed that this policy has placed an undue financial burden on vehicle owners.
'The money people invest in motorcycles, scooters, or cars is being wasted. Fuel pumps are becoming clogged, vehicles are failing mid-journey, and families are suffering despite paying road taxes and other fees,' he added.
The youth wing of Congress also pointed out that drivers nationwide have expressed worries regarding engine performance, maintenance expenses, and the absence of an option for purchasing petrol without ethanol blending.
The government has been advocating for ethanol blending as part of its plan to decrease reliance on imported crude oil, reduce emissions, and support local sugarcane farmers. The E20 petrol, which contains 20% ethanol, has been introduced at fuel stations across the country.