MNS' Amit Thackeray Warns Auto Drivers Over Hindi Use, Passenger Behaviour

Nagpur, Maharashtra: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Amit Thackeray has cautioned auto drivers and taxi operators against speaking Hindi or showing rudeness to passengers, warning that they could face consequences if such behavior is reported. This came after the Maharashtra government granted auto drivers a one-year extension to learn functional Marathi, a requirement aimed at promoting the state's official language.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had suggested the extension, citing the diverse age and educational backgrounds of drivers in the industry. Thackeray expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, stating that the government should prioritize the Marathi language over political considerations surrounding the upcoming Uttar Pradesh elections. He questioned Fadnavis' stance, asking, "What kind of desperation has come upon you that we should set aside our own language and our own state?"