Auto and taxi drivers operating in Maharashtra who do not learn the Marathi language face the risk of permanent cancellation of their driving licenses. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik confirmed the stringent new rule on Tuesday, emphasizing the state government's commitment to promoting Marathi.
Compliance Timeline and Penalties
Drivers will be given a grace period of up to four months to demonstrate proficiency in Marathi. Those who fail to meet the requirement within this timeframe will first receive a 30-day notice. If non-compliance continues after the notice period, their license will be suspended for three months. Persistent failure to comply will ultimately lead to the permanent cancellation of their driving license.
Minister Sarnaik's Firm Stance
Minister Sarnaik stated, "No action will be taken against more than 1,65,000 people who have learned the Marathi language. We will have to take action against those who do not learn Marathi." He added that the attitude of refusing to speak Marathi would no longer be tolerated, and legal action would be pursued against non-compliant drivers. "Our government wants people to come here to work. If you say you won't learn Marathi, then it will not work," Sarnaik asserted.
Deputy CM Shinde on Language and Love
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also commented on the initiative, revealing that approximately 1.25 lakh (125,000) auto and taxi drivers had already completed a government-run Marathi language course and received certificates during a 105-day campaign. Shinde described Marathi as a "language of devotion, not compulsion," encouraging people to learn it out of love and respect rather than fear of the law. However, Minister Sarnaik has adopted a tougher enforcement stance, crediting Shinde with the political impetus behind the campaign.
Impact on Drivers
The new rule aims to ensure that public transport drivers can communicate effectively with local Marathi-speaking passengers, fostering better service and cultural integration within the state. While many drivers have already embraced the language learning, the new penalties underscore the Maharashtra government's resolve to enforce the language mandate across the transport sector.