The Delhi government’s new rule denying fuel to old vehicles—those over 10 years old for diesel and 15 years for petrol—has triggered legal backlash. The Delhi Petrol Pump Dealers Association has moved the Delhi High Court, challenging the legality of penalties being imposed on fuel stations.
“Not Our Job to Enforce It,” Say Fuel Dealers
The petition, argued by advocate Anand Verma, claims that Section 192(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act applies only to the owner or driver of a vehicle, not to third-party service providers like petrol pumps.
“We fully support the government’s pollution-control efforts,” said Verma, “but legal action should be against violators, not those providing fuel.”
The association emphasized that while it welcomes the policy shift, it cannot be held liable for whether a customer’s vehicle is legally eligible for fuel.
From July 1, Fuel Ban on End-of-Life Vehicles
As part of its pollution-control drive, the Delhi government has barred all End-of-Life (EOL) vehicles from receiving fuel at petrol pumps. Enforcement began on July 1, with violations leading to fines and vehicle seizures.
AAP Blames BJP, Calls It “Phulera Panchayat” Governance
Former Deputy CM and Aam Aadmi Party leader Manish Sisodia launched a scathing attack, accusing the current BJP-led administration in Delhi of mishandling the issue.
“This is the pain of 61 lakh families. The Delhi government is being run like Phulera Panchayat,” he said, referring to the fictional village from a popular web series, implying chaotic and incompetent governance.
Public Outcry Over Forced Vehicle Replacement
According to AAP, 18 lakh four-wheelers and 41 lakh two-wheelers in Delhi are affected. Many of these vehicles are reportedly still in usable condition, but are now legally barred from refueling—forcing families to consider buying new vehicles.
“Automobile companies are reaping profits while common people suffer,” Sisodia alleged.
The Legal Question: Who’s Responsible?
At the heart of the case is a key legal argument: Can petrol pump operators be held criminally responsible for fueling an old vehicle, or should the law target only the vehicle owner or driver?
The Delhi High Court is expected to weigh in on this soon—a ruling that could shape how environmental rules are enforced across India.
