Arvind Kejriwal’s E20 March to PM Modi Stopped
Aam Aadmi Party leaders led by Arvind Kejriwal staged a sit-in on Firoz Shah Road after Delhi Police stopped their march towards PM Modi’s residence. The protest was organised against the nationwide rollout of E20 petrol.
Kejriwal’s E20 Protest March Stopped
Kejriwal, former Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia and other AAP leaders began marching towards PM Modi’s official residence to submit a petition opposing the compulsory sale of petrol blended with 20% ethanol.
Delhi Police barricaded the route and prevented the protesters from proceeding beyond Firoz Shah Road. Kejriwal questioned the restrictions and said AAP members were citizens seeking to convey public concerns, not “terrorists”.
After the march was stopped, Kejriwal and Sisodia sat on the road with supporters and continued their protest.
AAP Demands Choice Between Petrol and E20
AAP is demanding that motorists be allowed to choose between conventional petrol and E20 fuel at filling stations. The party claims older vehicles may suffer reduced mileage and possible engine-related problems from the higher ethanol blend.
Kejriwal said the petition intended for PM Modi had received approximately 2.5 lakh signatures. He sought a meeting with the Prime Minister to discuss concerns raised by motorists over E20 petrol.
The Centre has promoted ethanol blending as a way to reduce crude oil imports, lower emissions and support domestic ethanol production.
E20 Petrol Policy Faces Political Opposition
E20 petrol contains 20% ethanol and 80% petrol. Its nationwide introduction has prompted questions over vehicle compatibility, fuel efficiency and whether consumers should receive an alternative at pumps.
The BJP accused Kejriwal of using the demonstration to regain political relevance. AAP maintained that the protest concerned consumer choice and the financial effect of the fuel policy on motorists.
No meeting with PM Modi was reported following the stopped march, while AAP said it would continue campaigning against the compulsory rollout.
