Action against drivers without Marathi knowledge from Aug 20: Maharashtra Minister
Action will be initiated against those who do not possess the required certificate or working knowledge of Marathi. Notices will first be issued, and if compliance is not achieved, the driver’s licence and badge may be suspended for three months, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said
On August 19, 2026, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced a campaign to target auto‑rickshaw and taxi drivers who lack proficiency in Marathi, effective from August 20, 2026. Drivers without a certificate or working knowledge of the language will initially receive notices, with the possibility of having their licence and badge suspended for three months if they do not comply.
Additional Transport Commissioner Ravi Gaikwad will oversee the month-long drive, with Regional Transport Office (RTO) flying squads conducting checks and recording video evidence of the verification process. Earlier, Sarnaik had stated that the drivers would be given a chance to learn Marathi before any punitive measures, but concerns remain among non-Marathi speaking drivers in the state, who fear losing their livelihoods.
The government's new rule mandates working knowledge of Marathi, but the exact definition of this requirement is unclear, leading to fears of corruption and exploitation by RTO officials. Over six lakh drivers in Maharashtra, primarily from outside the state, will be affected by the initiative, which has already seen participation from more than 1.65 lakh individuals.
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