Arvind Kejriwal Urges Public to Stop Buying Fuel Vehicles

The Aam Aadmi Party is challenging the Indian government's E20 petrol policy, which mandates a 20% ethanol blend to lower emissions and reduce crude oil imports. National convenor Arvind Kejriwal appealed to the public on August 7, 2026, to stop buying petrol and diesel vehicles until the government clarifies its position on the fuel's implementation.

Speaking at a press conference in Panaji, Goa, Kejriwal alleged that the government failed to conduct proper testing, leading to a 25-30 percent drop in mileage for cars, SUVs, and two-wheelers. He noted that 85-90 percent of families in Goa are disproportionately affected due to high vehicle ownership. Kejriwal contrasted India's rapid rollout with Brazil's transition from E5 to E20, which he stated took over 50 years.

The party is demanding the public release of a reportedly withdrawn Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers report that allegedly detailed how moisture and chloride levels affect engines. AAP further demands that fuel stations offer consumers a choice between ethanol-blended and conventional petrol to ensure vehicle compatibility.

Market data from the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations indicates these concerns are already influencing buyers. In July, alternative-fuel vehicles—including electric, hybrid, and CNG models—accounted for 40.59% of passenger vehicle retail sales, nearly matching the 41.68% share of petrol vehicles.