Maharashtra Auto and Taxi Drivers Voice Concerns Over Mandatory Marathi Rule

Commercial vehicle drivers across Mumbai, including operators in Bandra and Mulund, have raised concerns over the Maharashtra government's decision to enforce mandatory Marathi proficiency for autorickshaw, taxi, and app-based cab drivers after Independence Day.

While drivers largely support promoting the local language, many have objected to strict penalties such as a three-month licence suspension for non-compliance. Drivers noted that driving is their primary livelihood and temporary bans would severely affect their household finances, children's education, and family expenses. They have urged the administration to provide language classes and adequate learning time instead of imposing immediate suspensions.

Operators have also reported logistical difficulties during the implementation process. Drivers attending mandatory Marathi training and tests at the Mumbai Central Regional Transport Office (RTO) faced long queues, procedural delays, and difficulties in securing completion certificates, leading to lost working days and reduced daily earnings.

Several drivers highlighted practical hurdles in daily communication, estimating that 70 to 80 percent of passengers converse in Hindi. Irfan Mohammed, a driver from Bandra, noted that passengers typically enquire about destinations, fares, and directions in Hindi. Brij Mishra, an auto driver from Mulund, added that even Marathi-speaking commuters frequently switch to Hindi when giving route directions, suggesting that increased usage by passengers would aid language learning.

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik clarified that the policy requires functional Marathi for basic passenger interaction rather than complete mastery. He noted that the rule had existed on paper for years without being enforced, and stated that over 1.1 lakh drivers across Maharashtra have already undergone special training conducted by various tutors.