Maharashtra sends notices to 777 drivers lacking working Marathi knowledge
The Maharashtra Transport Department has issued notices to 777 drivers found lacking functional Marathi language skills, as part of a state-wide inspection drive. Officials said on Saturday (August 22, 2026) that a total of 5,211 drivers were tested across the state, including 3,942 in Mumbai.
The drive began on August 20, three days after the August 15 deadline for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers to learn compulsory functional Marathi expired. Drivers found deficient were asked to acquire the language skills within one month.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said that drivers are being given sufficient time to learn Marathi, but warned that strict action will be taken against those who do not comply with the rules even after the deadline. The inspection campaign is scheduled to continue until September 30, 2026.
Under the 'Hindu Hruday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray Marathi Language Campaign', implemented by the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad and Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh, around 1.65 lakh rickshaw and taxi drivers have undergone Marathi training over the past 105 days. Certificates were distributed to participating drivers in the presence of Padma Shri writer Madhu Mangesh Karnik, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Minister Uday Samant at Gadkari Rangayatan in Thane.
To test drivers on the roads, the Regional Transport Office (RTO) has deployed marshals at busy rickshaw stands and junctions, including Dahisar Check Naka, Dadar station road, and Andheri station road. The inspectors engage drivers in everyday conversations, such as asking about destinations, fare meters, change, payment methods, and rickshaw stands. These questions are part of the curriculum taught during the 105-day training programme.
The Marathi proficiency requirement applies to taxi, autorickshaw, and app-based cab drivers under the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, amended in 2026. From May 1, drivers were required to demonstrate Marathi knowledge, but after objections from unions, the government introduced a three-month functional Marathi training programme with an extended deadline of August 15.
According to officials, the state has issued 9.65 lakh rickshaw and taxi licenses and badges so far, with Mumbai accounting for 4,62,387 license holders. Since August 15, RTO officials have been checking drivers' practical Marathi knowledge through direct interaction and video recording. Minister Sarnaik stated that badges will be issued only after a driver proves practical knowledge of Marathi.
The compulsory working knowledge of Marathi is enforced under Rule 4(4), Rule 78, and Rule 85 of the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, which make it a requirement for permit renewals. App-based motor cab drivers operating vehicles with electronic meters are also covered. In case of non-compliance, Provision 22(3A) allows for action including suspension of licences for up to three months or cancellation.
The inspection campaign reflects the state government's effort to ensure that drivers serving the public can communicate effectively in the local language. Officials emphasised that the aim is not punitive but to encourage compliance through training and reasonable time.
