Ethanol blending debate: BJP MP's 'father's house' remark sparks political row

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Janardan Mishra from Madhya Pradesh's Rewa has sparked a political controversy with his remarks on ethanol blending, asking the public if “pure petrol will come from your father's house”. The comment, made at a public event on Sunday, drew sharp reactions from the Opposition Congress and social media users.

Mr. Mishra, a three-term Lok Sabha member, was speaking in Rewa to launch flight services to Bhopal and Kolkata. He defended the Union government's policy of blending 20% ethanol in petrol (E20), which has faced protests from some groups and automakers over concerns about engine compatibility and fuel efficiency.

“India produces 20% [crude] oil while 80% has to be imported from abroad. And right now, there is a war going on. When [Prime Minister Narendra] Modi-ji talks about blending 20% ethanol in petrol, a movement that's going on claims ethanol won't work, only pure petrol will. Will pure petrol come from your father's house? If there's no pure petrol in the country, where will it come from?” Mr. Mishra said.

The BJP leader also cited Brazil as an example, claiming that the country runs all vehicles on “100%” ethanol blended fuel. However, this is inaccurate. Brazil currently mandates a 30-32% ethanol mix in gasoline, not 100%. While flex-fuel vehicles in Brazil can run on higher blends, the standard fuel is a blend, and pure ethanol is not the norm for all vehicles.

The Congress party responded sharply on social media platform X, questioning the source of ethanol. “Rewa MP ji, whose 'father's' house is this ethanol coming from? You've publicly displayed your upbringing and cursed the public! But remember, the days of arrogant words and injustice are now over! If you don't believe it, just take a look at the Datia result!” the party said, referring to a recent by-election outcome.

Mr. Mishra's remarks also triggered a social media backlash, with netizens sharing clips and criticising his choice of words. Some pointed out that the debate over ethanol blending is about policy and technical feasibility, not patriotism or personal attacks.

The E20 rollout, announced by the central government, aims to reduce crude oil imports and promote cleaner fuel. However, automakers have raised concerns about warranty issues and the need for engine modifications. The protest movement, led by some civil society groups, has argued that the policy lacks transparency and could harm food security by diverting sugarcane and other crops for fuel production.

The political row underscores the sensitivity of energy policy in India, where fuel prices and import dependence are major public concerns. While the government has defended ethanol blending as a step toward energy self-sufficiency, critics contend that the transition should be more consultative and grounded in scientific evidence.

Mr. Mishra's comments have added a heated tone to what is otherwise a technical and economic discussion. Both the government and its critics would do well to focus on the facts and the long-term interests of consumers and the environment, rather than trading personal barbs.