Maharashtra Proposes Mandatory Marathi Knowledge for Cab and Auto Drivers
MUMBAI — The Maharashtra government has proposed an amendment to state motor vehicle rules to make working knowledge of the Marathi language mandatory for drivers of taxis, autorickshaws, and app-based motor cabs fitted with electronic meters. Speaking on Wednesday, State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik stated that the government will not extend the August 15 deadline for drivers to acquire functional proficiency in the language.
The proposed changes are being introduced through a draft notification for the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, 2026, which seeks to amend the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. The amendment covers drivers and permit holders operating autorickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs. Under the proposal, applicants seeking relevant authorisations or permit renewals will need to demonstrate working knowledge of Marathi alongside other prescribed qualifications relating to driver antecedents.
According to a statement from Minister Sarnaik's office, working knowledge of the local language is necessary to facilitate communication with passengers, understand their instructions, and ensure safe and convenient travel. Sarnaik stated that making functional Marathi mandatory would clarify rules for passenger vehicle drivers and enable better implementation of transport regulations across the state.
The draft notification outlines an enforcement mechanism for non-compliant drivers. If a driver is found to lack the required working knowledge of Marathi, the licensing authority will issue a notice granting them one month to acquire the language skills. Failure to meet the requirement within this stipulated period may lead to a suspension of the authorisation on the driver's licence for up to three months.
Continued non-compliance following the suspension period could result in the revocation of the licence authorisation. However, the draft notification specifies that drivers will be provided a reasonable opportunity of being heard before any final revocation decision is executed.
A senior official from the state transport department confirmed that the draft notification is ready for official issuance after receiving clearance from the state law and judiciary department. The home department will subsequently issue the final notification under the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act.
In connection with the initiative, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is scheduled to present certificates on August 17 to hundreds of auto-rickshaw drivers who have completed a government-organised Marathi language training course. Sarnaik emphasized that Marathi is the official language of the state, and drivers providing public transport services should possess basic functional knowledge to serve passengers effectively.
