20 to 30 crore vehicles set to become scrap! Kejriwal targets Modi government

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal alleged on Wednesday that the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is resorting to strong-arm tactics to implement E-20 petrol. At a press conference, Kejriwal claimed that this move would render approximately 30 crore vehicles manufactured before 2023 as scrap and alleged that the central government is threatening automobile companies to keep them silent. Criticizing the central government’s move to promote ethanol-blended fuel, Kejriwal stated that the Modi government has stooped to bullying tactics to implement E-20 petrol. “A few days ago, I wrote to 29 automobile companies asking if E-20 fuel could be used in vehicles manufactured before 2023. I also asked if they would provide compensation if the vehicles broke down or if mileage dropped. No one replied officially, but I spoke to officials from nine companies.” He further alleged that these companies are operating under fear. Kejriwal said they told him the Modi government is threatening them. They admitted that using E-20 in pre-2023 vehicles would damage engines and reduce mileage, but said, “If we speak up, we will be ruined. They will shut down our plants or have the ED conduct raids.” Modi ji is bent on turning 30 crore pre-2023 vehicles into scrap. Kejriwal also questioned the benefits of ethanol, stating that it yields no foreign exchange advantage and depletes groundwater. “Why is Modi ji so adamant? We had planned a town hall on E-20, but the police arrived at the Constitution Club and got our permission cancelled. We never needed permission for indoor activities before.” Modi-ji, you will have to withdraw the E-20 decision—whether you do so willingly or we force you to.