LUCKNOW, July 13 -- In a sharp attack on the Centre's ethanol-blending policy, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Monday alleged that it was "a new name for profiteering" that was benefiting a select few at the public's expense. In a statement, he alleged: "Ethanol is a form of government-sanctioned adulteration, involving the government, ethanol producers and oil companies."

"Arguments in favour of ethanol claim it reduces pollution and lowers the import bill by decreasing dependence on crude oil. However, the government fails to mention that it reduces vehicle mileage and causes premature breakdowns and starting issues," Yadav further alleged.

"People have no option but to buy more fuel because of lower average. Vehicles are ...