Maharashtra is enforcing a new requirement that commercial passenger vehicle permit holders, including auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers, demonstrate functional Marathi. From August 16, drivers are expected to pass a field test assessing their ability to communicate with passengers. Local reports describe drivers in cities such as Pune scrambling to prepare, with some having completed basic training but still feeling unsure about real-world interactions.
Drivers’ concerns center on potential penalties for non-compliance. They fear that failing to meet the requirement could lead to suspensions, creating financial strain. Some also question the timing, citing other immediate pressures such as longer queues for CNG fuel and the fact that many passengers typically communicate in Hindi. Across coverage, the transport minister says the rule requires functional Marathi and that training is being provided, while debate continues over whether language classes and additional time would be more practical than early enforcement.
