NEW DELHI: The Maharashtra government has made practical knowledge of the Marathi language mandatory for all commercial passenger vehicle drivers in the state, warning of strict penalties for non-compliance with the rules.
Most of the drivers in Mumbai and Pune are from Uttar Pradesh and as such they are now required to learn Marathi.
A government resolution in this regard will be issued on Aug 12 as the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, will be amended, and the Motor Amendment Rules 2026 will come into effect, officials said. The amendment specifically targets drivers and permit holders of auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based motor cabs equipped with electronic meters.
Additionally, the mandate for Marathi proficiency is not limited to those behind the wheel but also extends to permit holders. According to the amended Rule 78 and Rule 85, the concerned permit holder must possess practical knowledge of the language.
Under the new rules, if an autorickshaw or taxi driver does not have practical knowledge of Marathi and cannot speak Marathi even at the level required for basic conversation, the driver will first be given a one-month notice. If they fail to learn the language during the one month, then their driving licence will be suspended for three months.
If the driver still fails to learn Marathi after the suspension period, provisions will be made for permanent cancellation of the driving licence.
Umakant Lakhera is a Senior Journalist and Political Commentator
