Supreme Court to Review E20 Petrol Policy Amid Ethanol Blending Concerns

Supreme Court to Address E20 Petrol Policy

The ongoing discussion regarding India's E20 petrol initiative has taken a significant turn as the Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the government's ethanol blending requirement on September 1, 2025. A bench led by Chief Justice BR Gavai, alongside Justices K Vinod and NV Anjaria, will preside over the case.

The PIL, submitted by Advocate Akshay Malhotra, requests that oil marketing companies (OMCs) ensure the availability of ethanol-free petrol (E0) in the market. Additionally, it calls for clear labeling of ethanol content at fuel pumps, allowing consumers to know exactly what they are purchasing for their vehicles.

Background of the PIL

Previously, the government mandated a 20% ethanol blending (E20) with petrol as part of its strategy to decrease crude oil imports and encourage the use of cleaner fuels. However, numerous vehicle owners and manufacturers have expressed concerns regarding the compatibility of older vehicles with E20. The use of such fuels may lead to corrosion, decreased fuel efficiency, and increased maintenance expenses.

If the Supreme Court supports the PIL, fuel stations might be required to offer both E0 petrol (ethanol-free) and E20 petrol, providing consumers with options based on their vehicle's compatibility. Currently, the lack of clear labeling creates uncertainty for motorists about the fuel they are using.

The upcoming hearing on September 1 is anticipated to establish a crucial precedent in reconciling India's green fuel objectives with consumer safety and vehicle compatibility.