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The petition had alleged that motorists were being forced to use fuels that were not suitable for their vehicles.
E20 Petrol to remain mandatory
New Delhi: The Supreme Court has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the mandatory sale of 20% ethanol blended petrol (E20) across the country. The petition sought to give consumers a choice and put up clear labels at petrol pumps, but a bench headed by Chief Justice BR Gavai said there was no need for interference in the matter.
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The petition had alleged that motorists were being forced to use fuels that were not suitable for their vehicles. The petitioner had also demanded that ethanol-free petrol be made available at petrol pumps, there should be clear labelling at all pumps and dispensing units, and consumers should be informed about the compatibility of fuel for their vehicles. Apart from this, he also sought issuance of appropriate advisory under the Consumer Protection Act.
The petition also said that the government should conduct a study to find out how much machinery malfunctions and fuel efficiency drop in E20 fuel non-compatible vehicles.
During the hearing, senior advocate Shadan Farasat said that the petitioners are not against E20 fuel, but are demanding an option for consumers. He also said that only E20 is being made available without any notice or information.
On behalf of the central government, the Attorney General said that the government has considered all aspects while making this policy. He also said that sugarcane farmers have got direct benefit from ethanol blending and the demand to end it is not justified. The court dismissed the petition and said that no further order is required in this matter.
