Kejriwal also claimed that the Centre is continuing with the E20 rollout (Img: X)
New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal is set to lead a protest march to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence on Tuesday over the Centre's E20 petrol policy. The march, which is expected to begin from the AAP headquarters around noon, is planned with nearly 100 supporters who intend to submit petitions opposing the ethanol-blended fuel initiative.
However, Delhi Police have not granted permission for the proposed procession, setting the stage for a possible confrontation if the march proceeds as announced.
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According to the AAP, Kejriwal plans to personally hand over petitions signed by citizens raising concerns over the use of E20 petrol. The party has been campaigning against the policy, alleging that the increased ethanol blending has created problems for vehicle owners.
Kejriwal has also claimed that the Centre is continuing with the E20 rollout despite public concerns and has questioned the government's reasons for pursuing the policy.
Addressing a press conference ahead of the march, Kejriwal alleged that India's ethanol policy was being pursued under pressure from the United States. He claimed the government had agreed to import ethanol from the US and suggested that the continued promotion of blended fuel indicated a "hidden agenda."
The AAP leader also said he decided to march to the Prime Minister's residence after receiving no response to a letter seeking an appointment to discuss the issue.
A Delhi Police source said no permission had been granted for the proposed march towards 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, the Prime Minister's official residence. Security arrangements have reportedly been strengthened to prevent any unauthorised procession in the high-security zone.
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It remains unclear whether the AAP will alter its plans or attempt to proceed despite the restrictions.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticised the planned protest, accusing Kejriwal of staging political theatrics. Delhi BJP president Harsh Malhotra alleged that the AAP chief was attempting to emulate recent opposition protests and was engaging in what he described as "politics of disruption."
Malhotra further claimed that if police stop the march, Kejriwal would portray himself as a victim and accuse the government of refusing dialogue.
