Nitin Gadkari: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has filed a petition in the Bombay High Court over the sharing of derogatory posts and deepfaxes targeting the government’s E20 ethanol blend fuel policy. According to a Bar and Bench report, the BJP leader sought permission to file a civil case against Meta, X, Google and other platforms against the false content, which the court has allowed.

False accusations on social media and controversy linking the family

Gadkari has alleged that some content on social media is associating him and his family with the benefits of the E20 policy, when in fact the petroleum ministry is administering the policy. His petition stated that some posts circulating on social media are falsely claiming that he is personally responsible for the program and that he and his family are getting financial benefit from it.

Purpose of E20 policy and concerns of vehicle owners

The development comes amid criticism of the E20 policy. The policy seeks to add 20% ethanol to petrol to reduce fuel imports into the country and control vehicle emissions. However, many vehicle owners have expressed their concern about the use of this fuel, especially in older vehicle models, leading to various discussions on social media.

Gadkari’s defense and open challenge to critics

Amid all these controversies, Union Minister Gadkari has always strongly supported the ethanol-blending programme. Earlier this month, he issued a major challenge to critics saying that if any car has had problems with E20 petrol, name just one. He clarified that there is no truth in the claims of damage to vehicles due to the use of this fuel and that the program is in the interest of the country.