Maharashtra To Make Marathi Mandatory For Rickshaw And Taxi Drivers From May 1

The Maharashtra government has announced a new directive requiring rickshaw and taxi drivers to know Marathi from May 1, coinciding with Maharashtra Day. The decision follows rising complaints from passengers in Mumbai, Nagpur, and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar about drivers being unable or unwilling to converse in the state’s official language.

Language Compliance Drive

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik confirmed that the Motor Transport Department will launch a verification campaign across 59 regional and sub-regional offices. Drivers failing to demonstrate basic Marathi proficiency risk losing their licenses, while officials who bypass checks may face disciplinary action.

Cultural And Practical Rationale

The government emphasized that knowing Marathi is not just a regulatory requirement but a way to respect local identity and ensure smoother passenger-driver interactions. The initiative also seeks to strengthen accountability in issuing permits and reinforce the 15-year domicile rule for applicants.

Implementation And Impact

The directive will be enforced through language tests at RTOs, beginning with Mira-Bhayandar and expanding statewide. Over 12,000 drivers are expected to be tested initially, with broader coverage in the coming months.

Key Highlights

• Marathi mandatory for rickshaw and taxi drivers from May 1
• Statewide verification drive through Motor Transport Department
• Non-compliance may lead to license suspension or cancellation
• Move aims to improve passenger communication and respect local culture
• Initial rollout covers 12,000 drivers in Mira-Bhayandar

Sources: India TV News, NewsBytes, Economic Times, Mid-Day