Arvind Kejriwal Leads Protest Against E20 Ethanol Fuel Policy

Arvind Kejriwal, the national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party, led a protest march to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence in New Delhi on August 4, 2026. Accompanied by approximately 100 supporters, Kejriwal sought to deliver a petition signed by 233,238 citizens opposing the government's E20 ethanol-blended fuel policy. The march was stopped by Delhi Police, prompting Kejriwal and other leaders to hold a sit-in protest on Firoz Shah Road.

Kejriwal alleges that the government is forcing the E20 mandate due to a $100 billion trade deal and pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump to purchase American ethanol. He claims the fuel damages incompatible engines and reduces mileage. His specific demands include allowing consumers to choose between pure petrol and E20 at pumps, pricing E20 lower than pure petrol, and capping pure petrol rates below 84 rupees per litre. He further urged citizens to stop buying petrol and diesel vehicles until domestically manufactured E100-compatible vehicles are available.

The Government of India has dismissed these claims. Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Minister of State Suresh Gopi stated the policy is based on scientific validation and reduces carbon emissions. Delhi BJP president Harsh Malhotra characterized the march as a political stunt and challenged Kejriwal to produce 100 vehicles that suffered engine failure specifically due to E20 fuel.