The ongoing debate around India’s E20 petrol policy has taken a new turn with the Supreme Court set to address a Public Interest Litigation challenging the government’s ethanol blending mandate on September 1, 2025. A bench led by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, along with Justices K Vinod and NV Anjaria, will hear the matter.
The PIL, filed by Advocate Akshay Malhotra, seeks direction to ensure that oil marketing companies (OMCs) continue to make ethanol-free petrol (E0) available in the market. The PIL also demands that fuel pumps clearly label ethanol content so that consumers are aware of what they are filling into their vehicles.
What Led To The PIL?
Earlier, the government had mandated 20% ethanol blending (E20) with petrol as part of its roadmap to reduce crude oil imports and promote cleaner fuels. However, several vehicle owners and manufacturers have raised concerns about the compatibility of older vehicles with E20. Such fuels increase the possibility of corrosion, reduced fuel efficiency, and higher maintenance costs.
If the Supreme Court upholds the PIL, fuel stations may be required to stock both E0 petrol (ethanol-free) and E20 petrol, giving consumers a choice based on their vehicle’s compatibility. Currently, the absence of clear labeling leaves motorists uncertain about what they are filling their tanks with.
The hearing on September 1 is expected to set an important precedent in balancing India’s green fuel ambitions with consumer protection and vehicle safety.
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