Party spokesperson Vandana Rajput says ethanol-blended fuel should be offered as an option and seeks proportionate reduction in prices
TFP Bureau, Raipur, August 13, 2026: The Congress in Chhattisgarh has demanded that the state and Central governments make E-20 petrol optional, alleging that consumers are being compelled to purchase ethanol-blended fuel while paying the full price of conventional petrol.
State Congress chief spokesperson Vandana Rajput said the government should ensure that consumers have the choice to purchase petrol without ethanol blending if they do not wish to use E-20 fuel.
Rajput alleged that the benefits of ethanol blending were not being passed on to consumers and argued that if 20% ethanol is blended with petrol, the price should be reduced proportionately. She termed the existing pricing mechanism unfair to consumers.
Congress raises concerns over vehicle performance
Rajput claimed that the introduction of E-20 petrol without adequate assessment of its impact on vehicle performance had caused difficulties for motorists. She alleged that consumers were experiencing reduced mileage and vehicle-related problems after the increased use of ethanol-blended petrol.
She said E-20 fuel had become a source of concern for vehicle owners and that the government should undertake a comprehensive assessment of its economic and technical impact on consumers.
Demand for consumer choice
The Congress spokesperson said petrol pumps were currently largely offering E-20 fuel, leaving consumers with limited choice. She demanded that non-ethanol-blended petrol also be made available so that vehicle owners can select fuel according to their vehicle specifications and requirements.
Rajput further alleged that while the government was benefiting from the ethanol-blending programme, consumers were bearing the additional burden of fuel costs as well as potential vehicle maintenance expenses.
She urged the government to review the policy from the perspective of consumer interest and ensure transparency in fuel pricing and availability.
