Notices issued to 1,268 drivers in Maharashtra over lack of working knowledge of Marathi
· India · Hindustan Times, Indian Express, The Hindu
On the first day of a statewide check, 1,268 commercial passenger vehicle drivers—mostly auto rickshaw and taxi operators—were issued notices by Maharashtra's Regional Transport Offices for failing to demonstrate adequate Marathi language knowledge. Across the state, 8,217 drivers were tested, including 3,995 in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and 4,222 in the rest of Maharashtra; 604 in Mumbai and 664 elsewhere were found lacking proficiency. Drivers given one month to meet the requirement, after which their driving badges will be suspended for three months if they still do not pass. The testing drive will continue until 30 September, and the state launched a Marathi course for non‑native drivers with a deadline of 15 August to learn the language. The ministry said that working knowledge of Marathi is essential for passenger convenience and safety and warned that failure to comply could impede drivers’ ability to operate legally.
Why it matters
The notices directly affect more than a thousand auto and taxi drivers who could lose their licenses, impacting their livelihood and passengers who rely on clear communication. The enforcement signals Maharashtra’s commitment to linguistic standards in transport services.
Read the original report — Hindustan Times
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