Jaipur

Former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot on Saturday attacked the Centre over increased ethanol blending in petrol, alleging that the policy was pushing up sugar prices and imposing an additional financial burden on people.

Gehlot claimed that a significant share of sugarcane was being diverted from sugar production towards ethanol, reducing the availability of sugar in the market.

“In just 15 days, sugar prices have surged by Rs 14-17 per kg,” the Congress leader said in a statement.

He also claimed that increased ethanol blending was affecting vehicle engines and reducing mileage, thereby adding to the expenses of vehicle owners.

“This amounts to nothing less than a direct assault on the hard-earned money of the common people,” Gehlot said.

He alleged that while a handful of industrialists and the government were benefiting from the policy, ordinary people were bearing its consequences.

The former chief minister also raised concerns over air and water pollution linked to ethanol production and alleged that the Centre had pushed ahead with increased blending without adequate preparations.

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“The Modi government has now lost the trust of the people and, as a result, is unable to convince them,” he said.