Sun Aug 31 06:35:42 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article version of the provided text:

**Summary:**

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the nationwide implementation of 20% Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP-20) in India is scheduled to be heard by the Supreme Court on September 1, 2025. The petition, filed by advocate Akshay Malhotra, argues that the mandatory use of EBP-20 forces motorists to use fuel potentially incompatible with their vehicles, particularly older models and some newer BS-VI vehicles. The PIL seeks the availability of ethanol-free petrol, mandatory labeling of ethanol content at fuel pumps, consumer awareness campaigns regarding vehicle compatibility, and a nationwide study on the impact of EBP-20 on non-compliant vehicles. The plea highlights potential engine damage, reduced fuel efficiency, and rejected insurance claims as consequences of EBP-20, contrasting India’s approach with the U.S. and E.U. where ethanol-free petrol remains widely available and ethanol content is clearly labeled.

**News Article:**

**Supreme Court to Hear Plea Challenging Nationwide Ethanol Blended Petrol Rollout**

**New Delhi, August 31, 2025:** The Supreme Court is set to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on Monday, September 1st, challenging the nationwide implementation of 20% Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP-20). The petition, filed by advocate Akshay Malhotra, alleges that millions of Indian motorists are being compelled to use fuel potentially damaging to their vehicles.

The PIL contends that EBP-20 is incompatible with many pre-2023 vehicles, including some newer BS-VI models, leading to engine corrosion, reduced fuel efficiency, and even rejected insurance claims. Malhotra argues that motorists are “being left helpless at the pumps” with no alternative to the high-ethanol blend.

The petition calls for several remedies, including:

* Ensuring the availability of ethanol-free petrol at all fuel stations across the country.
* Mandatory and clearly visible labeling of ethanol content on all fuel pumps and dispensing units.
* A comprehensive consumer awareness campaign educating motorists about the ethanol compatibility of their vehicles.
* A nationwide impact study to assess the mechanical degradation and efficiency loss caused by EBP-20 in non-compliant vehicles.

The plea highlights the contrast with fuel practices in the United States and the European Union, where ethanol-free petrol remains widely available and ethanol content is clearly displayed, allowing consumers to make informed choices. According to the PIL, India currently offers no such option or transparency.

The case is scheduled to be heard by a bench headed by Chief Justice B. R. Gavai. The outcome could have significant implications for the Indian automotive industry and the country’s broader ethanol blending program.

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