Hoshiarpur: During the ongoing session of the Punjab Legislative Assembly, Chabbewal MLA Dr. Ishank Kumar expressed serious concerns regarding the Central Government's E20 fuel policy. Speaking in the House, he stated that this policy could impact ordinary consumers, farmers, water resources, and the automobile industry, and urged the government to seriously consider all these aspects.
Dr. Ishank Kumar noted that when people voiced their concerns regarding E20, the government attempted to divert attention rather than addressing the issue seriously. He mentioned that when the public's voice went unheard, Aam Aadmi Party National Convener Arvind Kejriwal personally took up the matter and brought it to the people at the national level. He informed the House that a nationwide 'Townhall' campaign was conducted in opposition to E20, during which over 200,000 people signed petitions, while more than 700,000 participated via the live stream of the townhall. He stated that this clearly indicates the issue is not limited to a single state but is a matter of significance to people across the entire country.
Dr. Ishank Kumar pointed out that the government had justified the implementation of E20 by claiming it would make petrol cheaper; however, the reality proved otherwise, and the public did not receive the expected benefits. He also expressed concern that E20 fuel could prove detrimental to vehicles not designed for this technology, potentially creating new challenges for millions of vehicle owners. Dr. Ishank Kumar further remarked that the government failed to provide the automobile industry with sufficient time to adapt to E20 standards. This has created uncertainty regarding the future of older vehicles and could lead to financial losses for both consumers and the automobile industry.
He added that increased ethanol blending could place additional pressure on agriculture and lead to a significant rise in water consumption. This raises concerns about adverse impacts on future water security and food grain production, posing a threat to the nation's food security. Citing incidents such as paper leaks, he noted that citizens today expect accountability and transparency at every level. He urged the government to hold extensive consultations before implementing policies that affect millions of people and to provide satisfactory answers to all questions raised by the public.
Concluding his address, Dr. Ishank Kumar extended his full support to the motion presented in the House, stating that government policies should safeguard the interests of farmers and consumers, as well as the country's economic and environmental interests.