Maharashtra’s Transport Department begins enforcing a rule requiring commercial passenger vehicle drivers to demonstrate practical knowledge of Marathi. RTO flying squads and local inspections in Mumbai and other regions check drivers’ ability to understand and speak Marathi, with those who do not meet the standard issued notices. In the first days of the campaign, several hundred drivers in Mumbai receive show-cause notices, and the minister says non-compliance can lead to suspension of driving badges.
The government says drivers are given about one month to learn and/or demonstrate compliance before penalties apply. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik also states that immediate cancellation is not the first step, and continued failure can eventually result in longer suspension and possible revocation of badges and permits. Several outlets report differences in operational details and numbers across locations, including specific Mumbai RTO sites such as Wadala, Borivali, Tardeo, and Andheri. The Hindu notes that notices are sent to drivers lacking functional Marathi skills.
Other reporting highlights implementation challenges and responses. Drivers and driver groups raise concerns about obtaining certification after completing language training, and questions remain about how drivers who did not join the training will be assessed. Meanwhile, initiatives such as additional learning channels and calls for deadline extensions appear alongside the enforcement drive.
