Maharashtra extends the deadline for auto and taxi drivers to learn functional Marathi by one year, a move announced by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis amid protests and enforcement concerns. The policy sets a learning period during which drivers are not expected to face action for not yet knowing the language.
Outlets report that the extension follows pressure from drivers’ groups, which have sought more time to comply. Scroll and India Today say no action is taken during the one-year period for non-compliance, reflecting a grace window rather than immediate penalties. Times of India describes the step as providing access to language classes and support materials to help drivers meet the requirement.
NDTV adds context that Fadnavis met representatives of auto and rickshaw drivers’ organisations, who expressed support for the idea that people working in Mumbai should learn functional Marathi. Across reports, the common element is the one-year extension and the framing of the measure as a transition period to improve communication.
