Maharashtra transport minister defends rule mandating Marathi language rule for cab, auto drivers; here’s what he said

Maharashtra Transport Minister Defends Marathi Rule

Theindiapostdaily.com – The Maharashtra transport minister defends the rule requiring cab and auto-rickshaw drivers to demonstrate working knowledge of Marathi, dismissing calls for a deadline extension. Transport Minister Pratip Sarnaik confirmed on Tuesday that licences will face permanent suspension for drivers who fail to meet the language requirement, leaving no room for negotiation.

The Minister’s Firm Stance

Speaking to ANI, Sarnaik drew a clear distinction between the more than 1,65,000 drivers who already possess Marathi proficiency and those who do not. He stressed that no punitive action would affect the former group, while enforcement would target the remainder.

“No action will be taken against more than 1,65,000 people who have learned the Marathi language. We will have to take action against those who do not learn Marathi. Our government wants people to come here to work. If you say you won’t learn Marathi, then it will not work. Legal action will be taken against those who do not know Marathi. Those who don’t learn the Marathi language will have their licenses permanently suspended.”

What the Notification Requires

The state Transport Department brought the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles (Third Amendment) Rules, 2026, into force under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The amended text makes it compulsory for any authorised driver of a motor cab equipped with an electronic meter to demonstrate working knowledge of Marathi.

Enforcement follows a graduated process. A driver found lacking the required proficiency first receives a notice granting a full month to acquire the knowledge. Failure to comply within that window allows authorities to suspend the authorisation on the licence for up to three months, provided reasons are recorded in writing. Persistent non-compliance opens the door to outright cancellation, though the notification insists the driver must receive a reasonable opportunity to present their case before any such step is taken.

The amendment also inserts the phrase “and working knowledge of Marathi language” immediately after “antecedents” in Rule 4(4) of the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. Under the revised Rule 78, the requirement extends to permit holders as well, and any renewal of a permit for an electronic-meter cab demands that the holder demonstrate working knowledge to the satisfaction of the authority.

No Extension of the 15 August Deadline

Sarnaik ruled out any relaxation of the timeline. He told reporters that the state would not push back the 15 August cut-off by which non-Marathi-speaking taxi and auto-rickshaw drivers must have acquired functional proficiency.

“Marathi is the language of Maharashtra, and drivers providing public transport services here should have basic functional knowledge of the language. We have given them sufficient time to learn Marathi. From August 15, functional Marathi will be mandatory for taxi and auto-rickshaw drivers in Maharashtra.”

Political Reactions Split the State

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut endorsed the mandate, framing it as common sense for anyone doing business in the state.

“Wherever you go, it is necessary to learn the local language. You can do your business well if you know Marathi. We haven’t asked you to leave. But learn the language.”

Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar struck a more conciliatory note. While acknowledging the practical value of knowing the state’s language, he argued that compulsion crossed a line.

“It is important to know the language of the state in which you are driving your vehicle. But at the same time, it shouldn’t be forced on them.”

Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi went further, branding the decision a “great injustice” that could impede Mumbai’s economic momentum and accusing the government of acting on political motives rather than administrative necessity.

FAQ

When does the Marathi language requirement take effect for cab and auto drivers in Maharashtra? From 15 August, functional Marathi proficiency becomes mandatory for taxi and auto-rickshaw drivers operating in the state.

What happens if a driver fails the language check? The licensing authority issues a one-month notice. If the driver still does not comply, the authorisation may be suspended for up to three months. Continued non-compliance can lead to permanent cancellation of the licence.

Are drivers who already know Marathi affected? No. The minister confirmed that more than 1,65,000 drivers who already possess the skill will face no action.

Does the rule apply to permit holders renewing their licences? Yes. Under the revised Rule 78, any renewal of a permit for an electronic-meter cab requires the holder to demonstrate working knowledge of Marathi to the satisfaction of the authority.