Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday demanded that pure petrol should be made available at Rs 82 per litre, rejecting the government's push for E20 blended fuel. He argued that a significant reduction in fuel prices would directly curb inflation by lowering transportation costs, making essential goods cheaper for consumers.
Kejriwal's demand for pure petrol
Speaking to reporters, Kejriwal said, "The government is promoting E20 petrol, but what people need is affordable pure petrol. It should be sold at Rs 82 per litre, not the current high rates." He claimed that the Centre's focus on ethanol blending is driving up prices and hurting the common man.
The Aam Aadmi Party convenor emphasized that cheaper fuel would reduce the burden on households and help control rising prices of daily necessities. "When transport costs fall, everything from vegetables to consumer goods becomes cheaper," he added.
Impact on inflation
Kejriwal asserted that a Rs 82 per litre price tag for pure petrol would have a cascading effect on the economy. According to him, lower fuel prices would immediately reduce logistics expenses, leading to a decline in the cost of goods and services. This, in turn, would ease inflationary pressures that have been squeezing middle- and lower-income families.
He cited examples of states where fuel taxes have been cut, resulting in temporary relief, but insisted that a permanent price cap is necessary. "The central government must intervene to ensure petrol is affordable. Our demand is clear: pure petrol at Rs 82 per litre," Kejriwal stated.
Rejection of E20 blended fuel
The Delhi CM criticized the central government's ethanol blending policy, which mandates mixing 20% ethanol with petrol (E20) by 2025. He argued that this not only increases costs but also reduces fuel efficiency and damages vehicles. "E20 is not a solution; it's a burden on the people. We want pure petrol at a fair price," he said.
Kejriwal's remarks come amid a nationwide debate over fuel pricing and the transition to greener alternatives. While the Centre promotes ethanol blending as an eco-friendly measure, critics point to higher costs and compatibility issues with older vehicles.
Political context
The demand is part of Kejriwal's ongoing criticism of the BJP-led central government's economic policies. He has previously accused the Centre of failing to control inflation and called for a reduction in excise duty on fuel. The AAP leader's latest statement is expected to intensify the political slugfest over fuel prices ahead of upcoming state elections.
According to sources, Kejriwal may also write to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging a revision of fuel pricing. The Delhi government has already reduced VAT on petrol in the capital, but Kejriwal insists that central taxes must be slashed to achieve the Rs 82 per litre target.
