Nitin Gadkari Rejects Conflict of Interest Allegations Over Ethanol Policy, Calls Criticism ‘Politically Motivated’
Nitin Gadkari has strongly rejected allegations of conflict of interest regarding his advocacy for the government's ethanol blending programme. Speaking in an interview, Gadkari labelled the public and social media criticism as 'politically motivated'.
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has dismissed allegations that his advocacy of India's ethanol-blending programme is linked to his family's business interests, saying his sons' ethanol venture represents only a small fraction of the country's production. Responding to criticism over the Centre's ethanol policy, Gadkari said the attacks against him were "politically motivated" and reiterated that his support for alternative fuels is aimed at reducing fuel imports, cutting pollution and benefiting the country's economy.
Gadkari Denies Conflict of Interest
Addressing allegations that his push for ethanol-blended fuel benefits his family's businesses, Gadkari said the ethanol operations linked to his sons account for only a negligible share of India's overall production. Did Nitin Gadkari Announce To Introduce Flying Bus? The Truth Behind the Viral Remark.
He maintained that he has consistently promoted alternative fuels—including ethanol, methanol, biofuels, electric mobility and hydrogen—as part of a long-term strategy to reduce India's dependence on imported crude oil and lower vehicular emissions. Gadkari also argued that consumers are not compelled to purchase E20 fuel, stating that those who prefer conventional petrol can still opt for it, albeit at a higher price.
Remarks Come Amid Political Criticism
The minister's comments come amid heightened political debate over the nationwide rollout of E20 petrol, which contains 20% ethanol. Opposition leaders and some vehicle owners have questioned the policy, alleging that it could affect fuel efficiency and older vehicles while also raising concerns about a potential conflict of interest involving businesses linked to Gadkari's family. YouTuber Manish Kashyap, 3 Influencers Booked Over 'False' E20 Petrol Videos Linked to Nitin Gadkari.
Gadkari rejected those allegations, saying no individual with such a small share in ethanol production could influence a national policy for personal gain. He described the criticism as part of a campaign to malign him politically.
Debate Over E20 Fuel Continues
The controversy over ethanol-blended fuel has intensified in recent weeks, with critics seeking greater clarity on vehicle compatibility and the availability of unblended petrol. Some motorists have reported concerns over mileage and engine performance, while opposition parties have demanded more transparency from both the government and automobile manufacturers.
The Centre, however, has defended the policy, saying ethanol blending helps reduce crude oil imports, supports sugarcane farmers and contributes to lower carbon emissions. Government officials have repeatedly maintained that E20-compliant vehicles are capable of using the blended fuel safely.
India has steadily expanded its ethanol-blending programme as part of its clean energy and energy security strategy. The government has positioned ethanol as a key component of its efforts to diversify transport fuels, reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and strengthen domestic biofuel production.
As the public debate over E20 continues, Gadkari has maintained that the policy is driven by national interest rather than personal or commercial considerations, while political parties continue to scrutinise its implementation and impact.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 15, 2026 08:14 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
