The Maharashtra government has indicated that auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers may get extra time to comply with the proposed Marathi language requirement, offering relief to thousands of drivers who were worried about strict action under the new rule.
The assurance came after a key meeting chaired by Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik with representatives of various auto-rickshaw and taxi unions to discuss the planned implementation of the mandatory Marathi language rule from May 1.
The meeting was held amid growing tension after transport unions warned that they would launch a statewide agitation from May 4 if the government did not withdraw or relax the language mandate.
Drivers Agree on Marathi but Seek More Time
After the meeting, Pratap Sarnaik said there was broad agreement among drivers that Marathi should be adopted, but many union representatives requested more time to learn the language.
According to the minister, drivers asked for an extension ranging from three months to one year, saying they needed time to become comfortable with speaking Marathi before the rule is enforced.
This request was placed before the government during the discussions, but no final decision has yet been taken.
Final Decision on Extension After Review Meeting
Sarnaik said the government would hold another review meeting with senior officials from the Transport Department before making any final announcement regarding the extension.
He stated that the final decision would be taken only after the review meeting scheduled for April 28, making it clear that the government is still evaluating the concerns raised by unions.
This means that while the May 1 implementation date remains in place for now, the possibility of an extension is being seriously considered.
No Permit Cancellation, Says Nirupam
Offering further reassurance, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam, who was also present at the meeting, said the government had addressed the concerns of auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers and confirmed that no permits would be cancelled.
He said that while the government is committed to encouraging the use of Marathi, it will not take harsh action against drivers immediately.
According to Nirupam, the focus will be on ensuring that drivers are able to speak basic Marathi, while writing the language will not be compulsory.
Speaking Marathi Will Be Necessary
Nirupam clarified that the government wants public transport drivers to be able to communicate with passengers in Marathi, but does not expect them to learn written Marathi.
He said that conversational Marathi will be essential, but writing skills are not mandatory.
This clarification is expected to ease fears among drivers who were concerned that failing a written language test could lead to loss of permits.
Unions Had Threatened Statewide Protest
The latest clarification comes after auto-rickshaw and taxi unions warned that they would launch a statewide agitation from May 4 if the government enforced the Marathi rule without giving drivers enough time.
Many drivers, especially those from non-Marathi-speaking backgrounds, had expressed concern that the new rule could affect their livelihood if implemented suddenly.
The unions demanded that the government either postpone the rule or introduce it gradually.
The government’s latest stand suggests it is trying to avoid confrontation while still moving ahead with its plan to promote Marathi in public transport services.
Government Balancing Language Push and Livelihood Concerns
The Maharashtra government has maintained that promoting Marathi is important, but the latest meeting shows that it is also trying to balance that goal with the concerns of drivers.
By assuring that no permits will be cancelled immediately and by considering an extension, the government appears to be softening its approach to avoid unrest.
The final decision expected after the review meeting will now determine whether the May 1 deadline remains or whether drivers will receive additional time to comply.
For now, the message from the government is clear — Marathi will be encouraged, but drivers will not lose permits immediately.
Is Marathi mandatory for taxi and auto drivers in Maharashtra?
Yes, the government plans to make Marathi mandatory from May 1, but an extension is being considered.
Will permits be cancelled if drivers do not know Marathi?
No. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam said that no permits will be cancelled immediately.
What kind of Marathi knowledge is required?
Drivers will need to speak basic Marathi, but writing Marathi will not be mandatory.
When will the final decision be taken?
The final decision on whether to extend the deadline will be taken after the Transport Department review meeting on April 28.
