A newly formed citizen-led pressure group, the E20 Janta Party, has launched an online campaign against India's E20 ethanol-blended fuel policy, demanding that consumers be given the option to purchase 100 per cent petrol alongside E20 fuel.
The group has also called for the resignation of Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari over the implementation of the ethanol-blending policy.
Describing itself as an independent citizens' movement rather than a political party, the E20 Janta Party said its objective is to promote transparency, protect consumer rights and encourage public discussion on the impact of the E20 fuel policy.
"We are an independent citizens' movement focused on raising issues that affect the common people. Our only agenda is to ensure transparency, protect consumer rights, and encourage an open public discussion on the real impact of India's E20 (20% ethanol-blended petrol) policy," the group said in a post on X.
The campaign drew comparisons with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), whose protests over the NEET controversy recently culminated in the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
The group's X account reportedly gained more than 25,000 followers within hours of its launch.
Besides demanding the availability of 100 per cent petrol, the group has sought clear labelling at fuel stations, publication of official data on the economic and environmental impact of ethanol blending, and independent studies on its effect on vehicle mileage, engine durability and emissions.
"We are not asking for subsidies, free fuel or the withdrawal of ethanol-blended petrol. We are only demanding that consumers be given the choice to buy the fuel they want," the group said.
The Centre has said the E20 programme is intended to reduce crude oil imports, cut emissions, improve energy security and increase farmers' incomes through higher ethanol production. It has also stated that there are no plans to increase ethanol blending beyond 20 per cent and that there is no verified evidence linking E20 fuel to widespread vehicle damage.