The Maharashtra Transport Department is set to begin a statewide drive from August 20 to check whether auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers can communicate in Marathi.
The campaign will cover drivers across the state and is aimed at enforcing an existing language requirement for commercial passenger vehicle drivers. The government has said the exercise will focus on practical Marathi communication rather than just written knowledge.
What Is The New Marathi Rule For Drivers?
According to Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, practical knowledge of Marathi has been a requirement for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers in Maharashtra since 1989. The government now plans to enforce the rule more strictly.
Drivers will be assessed through direct conversations with Regional Transport Office (RTO) officials. The assessment process for new licences and badges will also be recorded on video.
The government says the move is intended to promote the use of Marathi while ensuring that passengers can communicate with drivers.
What If A Driver Does Not Know Marathi?
Drivers who do not meet the required level of Marathi proficiency will initially be given time to improve their language skills.
If a driver fails to comply with the requirement even after the additional period, the government has said the driver’s licence could be suspended for three months.
If the driver still does not meet the requirement after being given sufficient opportunity, authorities may begin the process for permanent cancellation of the licence.
Nearly 9.65 Lakh Licences And Badges In Maharashtra
The Transport Department has said around 9.65 lakh licences and badges have been issued to auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers across Maharashtra.
For new applicants, RTO officials will check their practical Marathi communication skills before issuing the required badge and licence.
The government has assigned Additional Transport Commissioner Ravi Gaikwad responsibility for overseeing the campaign. A report on the implementation is expected by the end of next month.
Government Also Checks Alleged Fake Domicile Certificates
The Transport Department is also examining complaints about people allegedly using fake domicile certificates to obtain auto-rickshaw and taxi licences or badges.
Officials have been directed to conduct local verification and, where necessary, police inquiries to establish whether applicants have actually been residents of Maharashtra for the required period.
Why Is Maharashtra Enforcing The Rule?
The government says Maharashtra has provided employment opportunities to people from different parts of the country, but it also wants to promote the Marathi language and culture.
The new enforcement drive is therefore expected to become an important test of how the state implements its Marathi-language requirement for commercial drivers while continuing to regulate the large transport workforce.
