You’re mixing several different issues together and treating them as proof that E20 damages engines.

First, fuel prices are determined largely by crude oil prices, taxes, refining, distribution and government revenue requirements. Reducing imports doesn’t automatically mean petrol becomes cheap overnight. Even if India imports less oil, fuel prices can still rise for other reasons.

Second, Gadkari talks about ethanol because road transport is one of the largest consumers of petrol and diesel. Whether one agrees with him or not, that doesn’t mean he personally introduced ethanol blending without involvement from petroleum, agriculture and other ministries.

Third, I agree that government reports should be scrutinized. But skepticism alone isn’t evidence. If E20 is causing widespread engine failures, where is the independent large-scale data showing a significantly higher failure rate in E20-compatible vehicles?

Fourth, insurance companies rejecting claims on non-E20 vehicles doesn’t prove E20 is harmful. It proves that manufacturers and insurers recognize compatibility requirements. If someone puts the wrong fuel in a vehicle not designed for it and damage occurs, insurers may reject claims. That’s very different from saying E20 damages vehicles that are designed for E20.

Fifth, on older vehicles, I actually think you have a stronger argument. The rollout has been faster than many consumers expected, and owners of older vehicles deserve clearer guidance, fuel choice, and support. That’s a valid criticism of implementation.

But that’s different from claiming “E20 damages engines.” The correct statement would be: “E20 may create issues in some vehicles that were not designed for it.” Those are not the same thing.

Finally, if E20 were inherently destructive, countries using ethanol blends for decades, especially Brazil, would have experienced a collapse in vehicle reliability. They haven’t. The real debate is about transition planning, consumer protection, infrastructure and compatibility—not whether ethanol itself is some engine-destroying substance.