The Indian Youth Congress (IYC) staged a protest on Thursday against the government's mandatory E20 fuel policy, demanding the 'right to choose fuel' for citizens. The protest, held in New Delhi, featured a sugarcane juice machine as a symbolic representation of ethanol production, while demonstrators also flung fake Rs 200 currency notes into the air to criticize the policy's economic impact.
Protest Highlights and Symbolism
IYC members, led by its president, brought a sugarcane juice machine to the protest site, using it to draw attention to what they termed 'ganne ka juice' (sugarcane juice) as a metaphor for ethanol-blended fuel. The group argued that the mandatory blending of ethanol with petrol under the E20 program—which requires 20% ethanol content in petrol by 2025—would hurt consumers and farmers alike. The fake currency notes, bearing the image of a sugarcane stalk, were flung to symbolize the alleged financial burden on the common man.
Demand for Consumer Choice
Addressing the media, IYC spokesperson said, "The government is forcing E20 fuel on the public without giving them any alternative. Citizens should have the right to choose between regular petrol and ethanol-blended fuel. This policy will increase vehicle maintenance costs and reduce fuel efficiency." The protestors also submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister's Office, urging a review of the policy.
Government's E20 Roadmap
The central government has been promoting E20 fuel as part of its National Biofuel Policy, aiming to reduce crude oil imports and cut carbon emissions. The target is to achieve 20% ethanol blending across the country by 2025, with a phased rollout starting from April 2023. However, critics argue that the policy could lead to higher food prices due to diversion of sugarcane for ethanol production and may cause engine damage in older vehicles not designed for high ethanol blends.
IYC's Broader Critique
The IYC also accused the government of prioritizing corporate interests over public welfare. "The ethanol policy benefits sugar mills and distilleries but ignores the plight of farmers who are forced to sell sugarcane at low prices and consumers who face higher costs," the spokesperson added. The protest is part of a series of agitations by opposition parties against the E20 mandate, with some states also expressing reservations about the policy's implementation.
