Source News 18
MUMBAI — In a major relief for commercial passenger vehicle drivers across Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that auto-rickshaw and cab drivers have been granted a one-year extension to acquire functional proficiency in the Marathi language. The state government confirmed that no punitive action—including the cancellation or suspension of permits, badges, and licences—will be initiated against drivers during this period.
The decision follows a high-level meeting between the Chief Minister and representatives of auto-rickshaw and taxi driver unions, led by Haji Arfat Shaikh.
Key Highlights of the Decision
No Immediate Penalties: The proposed drive to suspend driver badges and cancel operating permits for lacking basic Marathi skills has been put on hold for 12 months.
Support and Study Materials: The state administration, alongside regional transport offices (RTOs) and literary organisations, will organise free language classes and provide simplified study modules focused on conversational Marathi.
Focus on Working Knowledge: Officials clarified that the mandate does not expect literary fluency, but rather a functional command of conversational phrases to facilitate smooth communication with local commuters.
Background and Growing Backlash
The language rule, initially set in motion earlier this year, required commercial drivers in the state to possess a working knowledge of Marathi. Tensions escalated when the Transport Department launched statewide roadside inspections and issued notices to over 1,200 drivers who failed initial spot checks.
Union representatives emphasized that many operators come from diverse linguistic backgrounds and age groups, making immediate compliance difficult without structured training.
The mandate has also drawn legal scrutiny, with a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed before the Bombay High Court by app-based cab operators challenging the rule under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, citing concerns over the livelihoods of nearly 9.65 lakh drivers across Maharashtra.
Accepting the unions’ plea for time, the government affirmed that the extension strikes a balance between promoting the state’s official language and safeguarding drivers’ livelihoods.
