Marathi language training for auto‑taxi drivers to continue: Maha Minister

Mumbai, Aug 25 (IANS) Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Tuesday said non‑Marathi drivers operating auto‑rickshaws and taxis in the state must have functional Marathi language skills to communicate effectively with passengers.

Under a 105‑day initiative driven by the Transport Department’s social commitment, approximately 1,65,800 auto and taxi drivers across Maharashtra have received Marathi language training. Sarnaik said the initiative will continue.

The press conference at Mantralaya was attended by labour leader Shashank Rao, along with office bearers from the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad and the Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh.

The announcement came a day after auto‑rickshaw drivers protested in Kandivli, alleging harassment from native drivers, demanding compliance and expressing panic over rumours of steep RTO fines ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 20,000. The demonstration followed the Transport Department’s statewide drive launched on August 20, 2026, requiring commercial passenger vehicle drivers to demonstrate working knowledge of Marathi.

Sarnaik noted that the initiative had received overwhelmingly positive responses from drivers, who expressed respect for Maharashtra’s identity and culture. Workshops will continue through the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad and Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh for drivers yet to complete training. The department has submitted lists of centres across Mumbai, Thane, Bhiwandi, Nalasopara, Vasai‑Virar and Navi Mumbai to RTO authorities. RTOs will soon issue dedicated contact numbers.

The Minister emphasised that while the initiative stems from social commitment, the department remains responsible for lawful action against individuals operating outside legal frameworks. He added that the state plans to continuously run the “Hindutvahridaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Marathi Language Campaign” under the Marathi Language Department. Labour leader Shashank Rao has agreed to support workshops for drivers keen on learning the language.

Clarifying the timeline for learning basic Marathi, Sarnaik said drivers will receive an initial one‑month period, with an additional three months if required. While badge suspension remains a legal consequence for non‑compliance, no badges will be revoked during this grace period. Badge cancellation will apply only to drivers who intentionally refuse to learn the language after the extended timeframe.

--IANS

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