Poonawalla House Arrest Over E20 Protest

Activist Tehseen Poonawalla claimed on August 1, 2026, that India — Delhi Police placed him under house arrest at his Greater Kailash-1 residence, preventing him from leading a planned protest and hunger strike against the India — India's E20 ethanol-blended petrol policy. Poonawalla shared videos on social media showing police personnel outside his home, alleging he was detained without written orders. Police reportedly cited potential law-and-order concerns. The protest, announced on July 31, was to include a solo march to Gandhi Smriti and an indefinite hunger strike under the banner of Team Bharat. This followed the denial of permission for a larger 'Gaadi March' to Parliament. Poonawalla has been a vocal critic of the E20 policy, arguing consumers should retain the option of 100% petrol, E5, and E10 fuels. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has acknowledged E20 may reduce fuel efficiency by 2-6% but maintains it is safe and reduces emissions. The controversy has drawn criticism from opposition parties and some vehicle owners, particularly those with pre-2023 vehicles.