Pratap Sarnaik Announces Marathi Checks for Auto Drivers During Permit Renewals

THANE — Maharashtra Cabinet Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced in Thane that public transport authorities will evaluate auto-rickshaw drivers' Marathi language skills during driving licence and permit renewals.

Reaffirming a 1989 state regulation requiring basic Marathi proficiency for public transport operators, Sarnaik stated that the decision follows recurring passenger altercations and complaints lodged with the police.

The enforcement comes alongside the 'Balasaheb Thackeray Marathi Language Course Initiative', under which writers and educators conducted language sessions across 36 districts in the state. According to Sarnaik, more than 1,40,000 out of 1,65,000 registered non-Marathi auto-rickshaw drivers have successfully completed the training.

Sarnaik warned that drivers who remain uncooperative will face strict administrative action. However, the minister emphasised that the state government does not intend to affect anyone's livelihood through the measure.