Punjab Assembly Urges Suspension of Mandatory E20 Fuel Rollout

The Punjab Legislative Assembly passed a resolution on August 4, 2026, urging the central government to review and suspend the mandatory nationwide rollout of E20 ethanol-blended fuel. The resolution specifically targets vehicles not originally designed or certified for the blend, citing concerns over engine damage, reduced fuel efficiency, and the financial burden on farmers and middle-class families.

Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann criticized the Government of India for accelerating the implementation target from 2030 to 2026 without sufficient consultation or scientific evaluation. The assembly further highlighted environmental risks, noting that the high water consumption required for ethanol production threatens the groundwater table in Punjab.

The House recommended establishing an independent committee of experts to assess the impact of the fuel and demanded that consumers be allowed to choose between E20 and pure petrol. Simultaneously, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal led a protest march and submitted petitions against the policy in New Delhi.