Union Minister Says Karnataka, Kerala Can Test Petrol for Ethanol, Warns Against Politicising

Union Minister of State <b>Suresh Gopi</b> told reporters on Sunday that the governments of <b>Karnataka</b> and <b>Kerala</b> are free to test petrol samples for ethanol content. He added that the Centre has scientific backing for its ethanol‑blending policy and that a 20 percent blend has been approved for gradual implementation. The remarks followed Karnataka’s claim that its tests found higher ethanol levels in petrol sold at stations, while Kerala decided to conduct similar tests. Gopi cautioned that politicising the issue could spark unnecessary controversies. He urged both states to proceed with testing, emphasizing that the Centre’s policy is evidence‑based and that any political mudslinging could have real consequences for consumers.