The Tripura Pradesh Congress has raised serious concerns over the Centre’s ethanol-blended petrol policy, questioning whether the benefits of the initiative are reaching ordinary citizens or primarily serving corporate interests.

In a statement issued by Tripura Pradesh Congress spokesperson Prabir Chakraborty, the party said it supports environmental protection, alternative energy sources and the economic development of farmers, but argued that any fuel policy must also safeguard the financial interests of consumers.

The Congress said the Union government has projected ethanol blending as a major step towards reducing crude oil imports, saving foreign exchange, lowering pollution and increasing farmers’ income. However, the party questioned why consumers have not seen any reduction in petrol prices if ethanol is cheaper than petrol.

“If ethanol production costs are lower, the government must explain whether the benefit is reaching consumers or whether the financial advantage is being captured elsewhere,” the statement said, demanding greater transparency in pricing and procurement.

The Tripura Congress also expressed concerns over the compatibility of ethanol-blended fuel with existing vehicles. It cited concerns raised by automobile experts, environmental groups and industry stakeholders regarding mileage reduction, engine performance and long-term effects on vehicles that were designed primarily for conventional fuels.

The party referred to earlier observations by policy bodies, including NITI Aayog, which had highlighted the need for adequate infrastructure, suitable technology and vehicle compatibility before increasing ethanol blending levels. The Congress questioned whether the country had completed the necessary preparations before implementing the policy on a large scale.

The statement also raised concerns over the impact of increased ethanol production on food security and water resources. The party said large-scale diversion of agricultural land towards fuel crops could affect food production and urged the government to consider the views of agricultural economists, environmental experts and farmers’ organisations.

Highlighting concerns over water consumption in ethanol production, the Congress said the issue requires serious evaluation, particularly at a time when several parts of the country are facing water scarcity and irrigation challenges.

The party also referred to environmental concerns raised around ethanol industries in different parts of the country. It cited allegations of pollution and ecological damage linked to industrial activities in Byrnihat, Meghalaya, including concerns raised in a journalistic investigation regarding industrial pollution and a local ethanol plant. The Congress said all such allegations should be examined through independent scientific investigations rather than ignored.

The statement further questioned the government’s transparency regarding ethanol procurement and possible conflicts of interest. Referring to reports about the involvement of companies linked to the family of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari in the ethanol sector, the Congress demanded clarity from the government on potential conflicts of interest. It also sought public disclosure of company-wise ethanol procurement details, including suppliers, quantities and prices.

“The government must provide clear and fact-based answers so that there is no doubt in the minds of citizens,” the statement said.

The Tripura Pradesh Congress reiterated that it is not against renewable energy, ethanol blending or farmer development. However, it said it cannot support a policy that increases the burden on common people without ensuring transparency about who benefits from it.

The party called for a nationwide discussion involving scientists, environmental experts, farmer organisations, automobile manufacturers, consumer groups, political parties and citizens before making long-term decisions on fuel policy.

The Congress demanded that the Centre publish a comprehensive white paper on the economic, environmental and technological impact of ethanol-blended petrol, make expert opinions public and take transparent measures to address public concerns.

“Policy decisions in a democracy should not be imposed without public participation. The government must move forward by taking citizens into confidence,” said Prabir Chakraborty, spokesperson of Tripura Pradesh Congress.