Shiv Sena MLAs Seek More Time for Auto and Taxi Drivers to Learn Marathi
Several MLAs from the ruling Shiv Sena in Mumbai, representing constituencies including Kurla, Chandivili, and Andheri East, have urged the Maharashtra state government to take a liberal approach and grant autorickshaw and taxi drivers additional time to learn Marathi following a state-wide enforcement drive.
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam approached state Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik to request an extension of the deadline for commercial vehicle drivers to acquire a working knowledge of the language. Nirupam emphasised that enforcement measures should not threaten the livelihoods of drivers' families or lead to intimidation, though he maintained that drivers must learn the state's language.
The appeals follow recent crackdowns by transport authorities. On August 20, Regional Transport Offices issued notices to 1,268 commercial passenger vehicle drivers, predominantly autorickshaw and taxi drivers, for lacking adequate knowledge of Marathi. A day later, authorities served notices to another 1,499 non-Marathi-speaking drivers across Maharashtra.
Announcing the month-long drive, Sarnaik stated that the government did not intend to take away anyone's livelihood, but sought to preserve Marathi language, culture, and state identity. Sarnaik noted that 1.65 lakh drivers had already completed Marathi training and received certificates during an earlier 105-day campaign.
Several legislators representing areas with large non-Marathi speaking populations highlighted their efforts to train drivers while requesting leniency. Mangesh Kudalkar, the Shiv Sena MLA from Kurla, organised language classes in his constituency and said that around 60 to 70 per cent of local drivers have attended training, but still require additional time to learn.
In Chandivili, MLA Dilip Lande booked two halls to hold language classes, stating that 4,730 drivers had cleared exams. Meanwhile, Murji Patel, the legislator from Andheri East, noted that 5,130 out of 5,200 drivers who underwent training in his constituency passed their exams. Patel confirmed he spoke with Sarnaik, who provided assurances that drivers would be given additional time to acquire the necessary language skills.
