Two Senas, one Marathi plank: Language rule opens up a new battleground

A new political battle has emerged between the two factions of the Shiv Sena party in Maharashtra over a rule requiring auto and taxi drivers to be proficient in Marathi. The Eknath Shinde-led Sena, led by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, has implemented the rule, while the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) supports the need for Marathi language proficiency but has expressed concerns over its impact on drivers' jobs and incomes.

Auto drivers protested by blocking the Kandivali Link Road, while Uddhav's party MP Sanjay Raut urged the government to reconsider the decision. The UDT argues that the rule could harm Marathi auto drivers' earnings and questions who can claim to represent Marathi workers. The BJP and Congress are also weighing in, with the BJP seeking more time for non-Marathi-speaking drivers to complete their training.