SC rejects PIL against Centre’s E20 petrol policy; ethanol-free option for older vehicles

The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that challenged the Union Government’s Ethanol Blending Programme mandating the sale of petrol with 20 per cent ethanol (E20). The petitioner sought the continued availability of ethanol-free petrol (E0) for vehicles manufactured before April 2023, which are not compatible with E20 fuel.

A bench comprising Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran heard the matter. Senior Advocate Shadan Farasat, appearing for the petitioner, relied on a 2021 NITI Aayog report highlighting concerns over E20’s impact on older vehicles. He clarified that the plea was not against ethanol blending itself but requested an option of E0 or E10 for non-compliant vehicles. Farasat pointed out reports suggesting a potential six per cent drop in fuel efficiency when using E20, as well as the absence of alternative fuel options.

Attorney General R Venkataramani opposed the plea, arguing that the petitioner was acting as a “name-lender” for vested interests. He maintained that the government’s policy was framed after thorough consideration and emphasised its benefits to sugarcane farmers. Rejecting foreign comparisons, he remarked: “Will people outside the country dictate what kind of fuel India should use?” Following these submissions, the Chief Justice pronounced the petition dismissed.

The PIL argued that the compulsory rollout of E20 violated fundamental rights by leaving owners of incompatible vehicles with no viable fuel choice. It also alleged a breach of consumer protection norms, as fuel pumps lacked clear labelling and motorists were not adequately informed. According to the plea, higher ethanol content accelerates engine corrosion, reduces efficiency, and increases repair costs, while insurers often deny related claims.

Further, the petition noted that despite ethanol being cheaper than petrol, consumers were not benefiting from reduced prices, as fuel stations charged the same rates. It contrasted India’s approach with practices in the United States and European Union, where ethanol-free petrol remains available alongside blended fuels, which are distinctly labelled.

The plea sought directions to ensure the continued sale of E0 petrol, mandatory labelling of fuel pumps, advisories for consumers, enforcement of protection norms, and a nationwide study on the impact of E20. The Supreme Court, however, declined to intervene.
(With inputs from LiveLaw)