Mumbai: The Maharashtra government is set to implement a new regulation mandating that all licensed auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers demonstrate proficiency in the Marathi language. The rule, which comes into effect on May 1, Maharashtra Day, has raised concerns among drivers and unions about potential livelihood impacts and legal challenges.
Stricter Enforcement of Existing Rule
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced that drivers must possess basic knowledge of Marathi, including the ability to read, write, and understand the language. This requirement is reportedly an enforcement of an existing rule, with the Transport Department having received numerous complaints, particularly from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Nagpur, alleging that many drivers are unable or unwilling to communicate in Marathi with passengers. Sarnaik emphasized that knowledge of the local language is a professional responsibility for those earning a livelihood in the state and a matter of respect for Maharashtra. Failure to meet the language proficiency standards could lead to penalties or the cancellation of driving permits.
Verification Drives and Potential Hurdles
A statewide verification drive will be conducted through 59 regional and sub-regional transport offices. Drivers will be tested on their ability to read and write Marathi. While the government asserts that the rule has technically existed since 2019 and was strengthened by an amendment in November 2019, making it mandatory to personally demonstrate language proficiency, drivers’ unions have voiced strong opposition. Some unions argue that the existing provisions under the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules refer to a “working knowledge” of Marathi, not necessarily formal literacy, and that the current enforcement might be an overreach.
Concerns and Political Reactions
The move has sparked mixed reactions on the ground. Several drivers, many of whom are from outside Maharashtra, have expressed concerns about literacy barriers and the short timeframe to comply. Some question why permits were issued in the first place if language proficiency was always a strict condition, while others seek more time to learn Marathi. The decision has also drawn political criticism, with some leaders calling the move extreme and advocating for a grace period. Unions have threatened to challenge the rule in court, citing potential impacts on the livelihoods of thousands of drivers and the possibility of increased demands for bribes during the verification process.
Legal Precedents and Background
This is not the first time such a mandate has been proposed. In 2016, the Bombay High Court had struck down a similar condition for lack of statutory backing. However, the government has cited a 2016 High Court order that prima facie observed the eligibility condition as “not unreasonable” for public service vehicle drivers, who are expected to know the regional language. Rule 24 of the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, also forms the basis for this requirement, stipulating that drivers must possess a working knowledge of Marathi and local routes before obtaining licenses and badges for operating public service vehicles.
Enforcement and Accountability
The Transport Department has indicated that the verification drive will be stringent, with little room for exceptions. Drivers found lacking Marathi skills could face immediate license revocation. Furthermore, transport officials who are found to be issuing licenses improperly or bypassing the rules will also face strict action. The government aims to improve communication between drivers and passengers and promote the use of Marathi in daily public interactions. The verification process is expected to be completed within one to two months.
The Chenab Times News Desk