Maharashtra Mandates Domicile And Marathi For Aggregator Cab Drivers From August
The Maharashtra government has made domicile certificates and knowledge of the Marathi language mandatory for aggregator cab and bike-taxi drivers to obtain badges starting this August. The decision, announced by the state transport department, has sparked concern among migrant drivers in Mumbai and other metropolitan regions who form a significant part of the app-based transport workforce.
A large number of app-based cab drivers in the state are migrants from states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand. Aggregator companies, including Ola, rely heavily on this workforce to meet passenger demand in metropolitan areas. Drivers argue that it is difficult to attract enough local residents to drive the long hours required in the sector.
Akhilesh Mishra, an Ola driver, questioned who would benefit from the new policy. He expressed fears that the market could shrink if drivers fail to obtain the required documents. According to Mishra, a reduction in the number of drivers would lead to longer passenger waiting times and higher fares due to a supply crunch.
The state transport department stated that the objective of the new rule is to ensure regulatory uniformity. Officials explained that drivers of traditional kaali-peeli taxis and autorickshaws have long been required to possess a public service vehicle authorisation (PVSA) badge. This badge process already involves domicile verification, police checks, and a basic knowledge of Marathi. By applying these rules to aggregator cabs and bike-taxis, the state aims to establish a common framework for all passenger transport operators.
However, some drivers have questioned the rationale of the policy. Shahnawaz Hussain, a former aggregator cab driver, questioned the necessity of linking domicile to professional eligibility. He warned that thousands of experienced drivers with strong customer ratings could be forced out of the system. Drivers also highlighted practical difficulties, describing the process of obtaining a domicile certificate as time-consuming and costly.
Keshav Kshirsagar of the Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha, a union of aggregator cab drivers, suggested the policy might not achieve its intended local-employment objectives. Kshirsagar noted that in practice, obtaining a domicile certificate can be easy due to unscrupulous agents who help applicants secure documents using forged records and fake rent agreements for a fee. He stated that because of this, no driver is likely to be pushed out of the system.
Additionally, the government believes the badge system will help address the rapid growth of unauthorised bike-taxi services. Officials argue the system will improve accountability, help identify drivers, and ensure only verified individuals operate public transport services.
