Speaking Marathi must for cab drivers in Maharashtra, violations to cost permit
Maharashtra transport minister Pratap Sarnaik announced new rules for drivers. Commercial passenger vehicle drivers must now know Marathi for their jobs. Failing to demonstrate this skill could lead to permit suspension. This directive applies to auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cab operators. The state government aims for better communication and passenger safety.
Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has tightened its rules for commercial passenger transport drivers, mandating a working knowledge of Marathi and imposing severe penalties for violations. Under the new amendments, drivers of auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs with electronic meters must demonstrate practical Marathi proficiency.
Drivers found lacking in competence risk having their licences suspended for up to three months and even losing their licences altogether if they repeatedly fail to comply. Permit holders are also required to meet the Marathi language requirement. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said the changes aim to eliminate ambiguities that allowed some drivers to evade the language rule.
Over 1.1 lakh non-Marathi-speaking drivers have already completed language training, and the transport department urges the remaining drivers to complete the programme before the August 15 deadline. Drivers who successfully complete the basic Marathi course will be awarded certificates at a ceremony on August 17, attended by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers and Marathi Language Minister Uday Samant.
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