Oil Companies Deny Karnataka’s 31% Ethanol Claim, Cite Sampling Issues

Oil companies have rejected Karnataka’s claim that petrol sold in the state contains 31% ethanol, stating that the evidence provided is insufficient. The firms cited concerns over the sampling methodology used by the state, arguing that it does not meet industry standards and thus casts doubt on the accuracy of the results. Karnataka’s transport department had earlier announced the claim following a test conducted by a state agency, but the companies say the test procedures were not transparent. The dispute has prompted calls for a joint investigation by state and national fuel regulators to verify the ethanol content and ensure compliance with safety norms.