Marathi Language Mandatory for Taxi & Auto Drivers in Maharashtra From May 1; Licences May Be Cancelled

The Maharashtra government has announced that from May 1, all licensed autorickshaw and taxi drivers in the state will be required to demonstrate basic knowledge of Marathi. The move, coinciding with Maharashtra Day, is aimed at ensuring better communication between drivers and passengers across the state, according to the transport department.

Marathi Language Mandatory for Taxi and Auto Drivers in Maharashtra From May 1; Verification Drive Across 59 Transport Offices

The transport department will soon launch a large-scale verification campaign across 59 regional and sub-regional transport offices in Maharashtra. Under this drive, officials will check whether drivers are able to read and write Marathi as part of the licensing compliance process.

State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik told media that failure to meet the requirement could lead to cancellation of licences and badges. He stated that the rule is not new but has existed within licensing conditions, though enforcement is now being strengthened due to repeated complaints.

Marathi Language Rule for Drivers: Licences May Be Cancelled for Non-Compliance

According to the transport department, drivers must be able to read and write Marathi, and not just speak it. Officials believe this will improve passenger communication, reduce misunderstandings over routes and fares, and ensure smoother public transport interactions.

Sarnaik said complaints have been received from several regions including Mumbai, Nagpur, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, where passengers reportedly faced difficulties communicating with some drivers who are unable or unwilling to use Marathi during service.

Drivers' Unions Oppose Marathi Language Requirement

The announcement has triggered strong reactions from drivers' unions across Maharashtra. Union representatives argue that many long-serving drivers already met language expectations when they first received their permits and fear that stricter enforcement could affect their livelihoods.

They also warn that many non-Marathi speaking drivers, who have been working in the state for years, could face sudden disqualification if they fail the verification process. Some unions have indicated that they may challenge the decision legally if licences are cancelled.

Legal Challenge and Livelihood Concerns Raised by Unions

Drivers' associations have stated that they are considering approaching the courts if any punitive action is taken. According to them, the interpretation of the language requirement is being tightened beyond what was originally understood under existing rules.

Union leaders have also expressed concern that the move could impact thousands of families who depend on daily earnings from taxi and autorickshaw services, potentially creating financial uncertainty for migrant drivers working in Maharashtra.

Defending the policy, Transport Minister Sarnaik told media that learning the local language is a basic expectation for anyone earning a livelihood in the state. He emphasised that effective communication between drivers and passengers is essential for public service efficiency.

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