India News : Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has said that consumers who do not want to buy ethanol-blended E20 petrol can opt for 100 per cent pure petrol. However, he maintained that E20 petrol is completely safe for vehicles.
Gadkari said those unwilling to use E20 fuel have the option of purchasing pure petrol, though it is significantly more expensive. Indian Oil’s premium pure petrol, XP100, reportedly costs around ₹170 per litre, much higher than regular E20 petrol.
Gadkari made the remarks when asked whether petrol with a lower ethanol blend, such as E10, could be reintroduced at fuel stations to address concerns among vehicle owners.
“Perhaps not now,” Gadkari reportedly replied.
‘E20 Target Achieved, Going Back Is Not Possible’
Gadkari said India has already achieved its target of 20 per cent ethanol blending and E20 petrol is now available across the country.
He said reversing the policy at this stage would not be possible. However, he clarified that any decision on offering petrol with different ethanol-blending levels falls under the jurisdiction of the Petroleum Ministry.
Gadkari also rejected claims that the use of E20 petrol damages vehicle engines or significantly reduces mileage. He described the controversy surrounding E20 fuel as “politically motivated” and alleged that false and misleading information was being circulated to target the government.
FIR Filed Against Four Social Media Influencers
Meanwhile, Nagpur Cyber Police have reportedly registered a case against four social media influencers over allegations that they attempted to defame Nitin Gadkari.
Those named in the case include Bihar-based YouTuber Manish Kashyap, Desi Boys NCR, Harshit Rathi and Anklesh Inwate.
The case was registered following a complaint filed by Shishir Tripathi, head of the BJP’s social media cell.
According to the complaint, the influencers allegedly conducted misleading interviews to make their videos appear authentic. It has been alleged that the content was intended to damage Gadkari’s political and social reputation.
