Maharashtra Seeks Law Change To Make Marathi Mandatory For Cab Drivers

The Maharashtra government has proposed to amend the law to make "working knowledge of Marathi language" mandatory for cab drivers, with non-compliance potentially leading to suspension or revocation of their driving licences, officials said. 

State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Wednesday said there will be no extension of the August 15 deadline for autorickshaw and taxi drivers to learn Marathi.

Under the proposed amendments to the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989,



the driver of a motor cab fitted with an electronic meter will have to possess "working knowledge of Marathi language", according to a draft notification issued by the state government, a copy of which was shared with the media by Sarnaik's office on Wednesday. 

"Working knowledge of the local language is necessary to communicate with passengers, understand what they have to say and ensure safe and convenient travel. This will enable more effective implementation of these rules in the future," Sarnaik said.