Maharashtra Marathi Rule: The Maharashtra government has implemented a major and strict regulation making it mandatory for all licensed auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers to possess knowledge of the Marathi language. This rule will come into effect on May 1st—that is, on Maharashtra Day.
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Maharashtra Marathi Rule: The Maharashtra government has implemented a major and stringent regulation making it mandatory for all licensed auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers to possess knowledge of the Marathi language. This rule is set to come into effect on May 1st—observed as Maharashtra Day. Meanwhile, this decision by the state government has elicited a range of reactions. While some are voicing their support for the move, others remain concerned about their livelihoods and the potential for corruption.
Knowledge of ‘Marathi’ has been made mandatory.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik stated that the Motor Transport Department will conduct inspection drives across the entire state. As part of this initiative, drivers will be screened at 59 regional and sub-regional offices to verify whether they are able to read and write Marathi.
Sarnaik clarified that this rule was already part of the licensing regulations, but following complaints, it is now being strictly enforced. He stated, “Complaints have been received from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Nagpur indicating that many drivers are unable to speak Marathi or deliberately avoid doing so.” He further added that respecting the official language is a “professional responsibility.” He also warned of action against officials who violate these regulations.
Many Support the Government’s Decision
However, the government’s decision has garnered support. Welcoming the move, Anil Desai remarked that this is not a new rule, but rather the enforcement of an existing regulation. He stated, “There is nothing wrong with this. Many drivers from other states already speak Marathi. As it is the official language, this is entirely appropriate.”
Some drivers also endorsed this view, noting that learning Marathi has helped them connect better with passengers. Ashok Dubey, a taxi driver based at Mumbai Central since 1990, mentioned that he understands approximately 50% of the language and believes that anyone working in a particular state should be proficient in its local language. Basant Yadav—a native of Jharkhand who has resided in the Bhindi Bazaar area for 27 years—shared that he gradually picked up Marathi and can now speak it with ease.
Some Auto Drivers Raise Questions
Rupesh Chaudhary, an auto driver from Mulund, questioned this decision. He asked, “Drivers already converse in Hindi, Marathi, or other languages. If Marathi is made mandatory, will the government assist them in learning it?” He demanded that the government arrange for assistance and training for drivers rather than imposing fines.
Subhash Pal, another driver from Mulund, stated that while the rule makes sense, the immediate cancellation of licenses would not be appropriate. He remarked, “Drivers should be given time and encouragement to learn. Their livelihoods should not be abruptly impacted.”
Thampi Kurien, a leader of the Mumbai Rickshaw Union, stated that drivers already have to undergo rigorous procedures, including obtaining a Public Service Badge, which requires a domicile certificate, police clearance, and basic proficiency in the Marathi language. He remarked, “Revoking permits retroactively would be unfair and economically detrimental.” He also warned that such a move could lead to the harassment of drivers and the potential misuse of regulations.
Shashank Rao, head of the Auto Rickshaw and Taxi Drivers Union, noted that there are approximately 1.5 million permits in Maharashtra, including over 450,000 autos in Mumbai and Central Maharashtra. He argued that language proficiency requirements should have been enforced at the time the permits were issued. “Implementing this now could fuel corruption,” he said. “Many drivers have taken out loans—why is this being enforced so abruptly?” He further added that the union would write to the minister requesting a reconsideration of the matter.
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