Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
Former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday accused the BJP-led Central Government of forcing E20 petrol on consumers despite what he described as widespread public opposition.
Addressing a press conference, Kejriwal urged the Centre to withdraw what he called its "stubborn approach" and allow people to choose the type of petrol they want to use.
Targeting the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kejriwal alleged that the Centre was using new tactics every day to encourage the use of E20 fuel. He claimed that on July 3, the government asked six automobile manufacturers to hold a joint press conference to explain the benefits of E20 petrol to the public.
According to Kejriwal, the companies approached included Maruti Suzuki, Toyota Kirloskar, Hero MotoCorp, Hyundai Motor, Bajaj Auto, and TVS Motor. He alleged that three companies declined to participate, while Maruti Suzuki, Toyota Kirloskar, and Hero MotoCorp publicly supported E20 fuel.
AAP leader further claimed that the companies' statements were inconsistent with information in their vehicle owner manuals. He alleged that the manuals indicate some vehicles are not designed for fuel blends higher than E10, despite the companies endorsing E20.
Kejriwal also questioned whether the companies would compensate customers if E20 fuel reduced vehicle mileage or caused damage requiring replacement of parts. He said he would raise these questions directly with the manufacturers and would also write to Prime Minister Modi, urging the Centre to ensure compensation for consumers if they suffer losses due to the use of E20 petrol.
The Central Government and the automobile companies had not immediately responded to Kejriwal's allegations.
