Amid growing concerns among autorickshaw and taxi drivers over the Maharashtra government’s Marathi language requirement, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis clarified that the aim is not to make drivers language experts but to help them communicate with passengers in the local language.
The clarification came after rumours of heavy fines and licence cancellations created panic among several drivers, leading to protests in parts of Mumbai. Some drivers feared that they would face penalties if they failed to prove Marathi proficiency.
Fadnavis said the requirement is only for a “working knowledge” of Marathi, meaning drivers should understand and speak basic Marathi needed for their daily work.
“There is no reason to make them experts in Marathi. They should know work-related, basic Marathi,” Fadnavis said.
The Maharashtra government had earlier issued guidelines asking autorickshaw and taxi drivers to learn Marathi. However, officials clarified that drivers will first receive a one-month notice period to improve their language skills. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik also stated that no action should be taken against drivers before the deadline ends. He warned that strict action would be taken against officials who impose fines before giving drivers the required time.
The issue gained attention after protests broke out in areas including Kandivali, Malad, Santacruz, Dahisar and Andheri. Some groups of drivers reportedly stopped other vehicles from operating, causing inconvenience to passengers during peak hours.
Officials said misinformation about fines ranging between ₹5,000 and ₹20,000 contributed to the confusion among drivers. The government clarified that no licence has been cancelled so far.
According to the transport department, more than 1.65 lakh non-Marathi-speaking autorickshaw and taxi drivers have already attended Marathi language classes.
The government maintained that the purpose of the initiative is to improve communication between drivers and passengers, not to create difficulties for workers. The move comes as part of efforts to ensure smoother interaction in Maharashtra’s public transport system.
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