Marathi mandatory for rickshaw and taxi drivers in Maharashtra from THIS date

Maharashtra government makes Marathi mandatory for taxi and auto drivers from May 1, warning of licence cancellation for non-compliance amid complaints over communication gaps with passengers.

Post Published By: Ayushi Bisht

Updated : 14 April 2026, 8:51 PM IST

Marathi mandatory for rickshaw and taxi drivers in Maharashtra (Img: Internet)

Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has made it mandatory for all licensed auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers to have basic knowledge of Marathi from May 1. The directive was announced by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Tuesday.

The move will come into effect on Maharashtra Day and will apply across the state.

Statewide Drive to Enforce Rule

Officials said a statewide inspection campaign will be carried out by the Motor Transport Department to ensure compliance. The verification process will be conducted through 59 regional and sub-regional offices.

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Drivers will be assessed on their ability to read, write and communicate in Marathi as part of the enforcement exercise.

Licence Cancellation for Non-Compliance

The minister said strict action will be taken against those failing to meet the requirement. Licences of drivers who do not possess basic knowledge of the language may be cancelled.

He added that the rule mandating knowledge of the local language already exists but has not been effectively enforced.

Complaints Trigger Action

The decision follows multiple complaints received by the Transport Department, particularly from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar and Nagpur.

Passengers had reported difficulties in communicating with drivers who were either unable or unwilling to speak Marathi.

Officials Also Under Scanner

The government has also warned of action against transport officials found issuing licences in violation of existing norms. Authorities said accountability will be fixed if rules regarding language requirements were ignored.

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The minister said the measure is aimed at ensuring smoother communication between drivers and passengers.

Emphasis on Local Language Respect

Sarnaik said that while individuals may take pride in their mother tongue, it is important to respect the language of the state in which they work.

The government maintains that the step will improve public convenience and strengthen adherence to existing transport regulations.