Maharashtra to Video Record Marathi Tests for Auto and Taxi Drivers

The Maharashtra transport department will now assess the practical Marathi-speaking ability of applicants seeking new auto-rickshaw, taxi, and aggregator cab permits and badges through direct interaction with Regional Transport Office (RTO) officials in Mumbai and across the state.

The entire verification process for new permits and badges will be video-recorded, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced during a press conference on Wednesday. Badges will henceforth be issued only after confirming that an applicant possesses a working knowledge of the Marathi language.

While the requirement has existed under rules dating back to 1989, the state government will enforce it strictly starting August 20, following amended legal provisions that were officially notified on August 12.

Under the enforced guidelines, drivers found lacking adequate Marathi skills will initially be served a one-month notice to learn the language. If a driver fails to do so within that timeframe, the department may suspend their badge for up to three months. The minister warned that continued refusal could lead to the permanent cancellation of both their badge and driving licence.

Alongside the language assessment requirement, the transport department has also initiated a crackdown on the alleged use of fake domicile certificates submitted by applicants to obtain permits and badges.