A major political and administrative debate has erupted in Maharashtra after the state government announced a new rule requiring auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers to demonstrate basic Marathi language proficiency to retain their driving licences.
According to Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, the directive will come into effect from May 1 and will be enforced across 59 Regional Transport Office (RTO) centres in the state. Under the new guidelines, drivers will be assessed on their ability to read and write Marathi as part of licensing requirements.
Officials have stated that the move is aimed at improving communication between drivers and passengers, particularly in urban areas where local language usage is considered important for service efficiency and public convenience. However, the announcement has sparked immediate and widespread political reactions.
Opposition parties, driver unions, and various political groups have strongly criticised the decision, arguing that it could place an additional burden on migrant workers who form a significant portion of the taxi and auto-rickshaw workforce in Maharashtra. Several unions have also warned that the policy may lead to confusion and potential job insecurity if implemented strictly.
Supporters of the decision, however, maintain that basic Marathi literacy will help improve passenger experience and ensure smoother communication in daily transport services across the state.
The announcement has now turned into a larger political debate, with discussions expected in the coming days over how the rule will be implemented and whether any exemptions or training support will be provided for drivers who are currently unable to meet the requirement.
