No Deception: Udit Raj Demands Transparency Over Ethanol Blending
Congress leader Udit Raj raises concerns over ethanol blending exceeding E20 levels, citing vehicle engine faults and pricing discrepancies.
Congress leader Udit Raj has raised serious concerns regarding the current state of ethanol blending transparency in petrol, particularly following allegations that blending levels have exceeded the E20 limit in Karnataka. Speaking to ANI, Raj emphasized that consumers must not be misled regarding the actual composition and the pricing of the fuel they purchase at the pump.
Concerns Over Pricing and Deception
The core of the issue, according to Udit Raj, lies in the price disparity between petrol and ethanol. He argued that because the two components have different costs, any lack of clarity in the blending process could lead to the deception of the general public.
"Ethanol should be blended with transparency. The prices of petrol and ethanol differ; there should be no deception," Raj stated, urging the authorities to ensure that the interests of the consumers are protected.
Reports of Engine Damage
Beyond the financial aspect, the Congress leader pointed toward a growing number of technical grievances. He revealed that numerous complaints have surfaced recently, with vehicle owners reporting that their engines have developed faults, potentially linked to the higher ethanol content in the fuel.
The Industry's Perspective: "Overnight Scrap"
These concerns echo sentiments previously expressed by industry representatives. Sanjay Samrat, President of the Delhi Taxi and Tourist Transport and Tour Operators Association, has issued a stark warning about the rollout of ethanol-blended petrol. Samrat claimed that such fuel could damage a vast array of bikes, private cars, and taxis across the country, effectively turning these vehicles into "overnight scrap."
Samrat expressed deep frustration, describing the 20 percent ethanol blend as "sugarcane juice" that motorists are forced to pay for at full petrol prices. He criticized the policies spearheaded by Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, claiming that motorists have been suffering financial and mental losses for over a decade and that their concerns continue to be ignored.
Government's Stance
Despite these mounting complaints from political leaders and transport associations, the government has maintained a different narrative. On August 4, Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare stated during the FICCI MASSMERIZE 2026 Retail, FMCG, and E-commerce Conference that the government had not received any official complaints regarding E-20 fuel up to that point.
However, she did assure that any complaints that are formally submitted will be forwarded to the appropriate departments for necessary action.