23 April,2026 04:36 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Pratap Sarnaik chairs meeting on proposed changes to Motor Vehicle Rules 4, 28 and 85 to promote Marathi language. PIC/X
Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Thursday reiterated that all autorickshaw, taxi, app-based cab, and bike taxi drivers must know Marathi, with the new rule set to be implemented from May 1, Maharashtra Day.
He said that many disputes arise between drivers and passengers due to language barriers.
"Many people say that when we travel by rickshaw or taxi, drivers do not know Marathi and passengers do not know Hindi, leading to arguments and FIRs," Sarnaik said.
He added that from May 1, Marathi knowledge will be checked while issuing or renewing licences, badges and permits, with RTO authorities verifying both documents and language proficiency.
Drivers who do not know Marathi will be given an opportunity to learn the language, he said, adding that organisations such as the Kokan Marathi Sahitya Parishad and Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh will conduct training sessions.
Reacting to the decision, Union Minister and RPI leader Ramdas Athawale said that while learning Marathi is important for those living in Mumbai, making it compulsory or linking it to licence cancellation is not appropriate.
He said Mumbai has always accommodated people from across India who come for livelihood and stressed that drivers should be trained instead of penalised.
The state government said the move is aimed at reducing language-related disputes between passengers and drivers.
The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has launched a fresh campaign in Goregaon aimed at promoting the Marathi language, with auto-rickshaw drivers being mobilised to display boards reading "I Know Marathi" on their vehicles.
The initiative, announced on Wednesday, has quickly drawn attention across political and social circles, sparking both praise and criticism.
MNS leader Sanjay Naik, speaking to the media, said that the campaign is not intended to target any community but rather to highlight the importance of the state's language and cultural identity. He emphasised that Marathi is central to Maharashtra's heritage and that those living and working in the state should make an effort to learn it.
Naik added that learning the local language helps people integrate more easily into society and demonstrates respect for the culture.
In his remarks, the MNS leader acknowledged the contributions of North Indians who have lived in Maharashtra for decades, raising families and becoming an integral part of society. He stressed that the campaign is not against them, but is meant to encourage awareness and respect for Marathi.
"I am fighting for the Marathi language. I am fluent in Hindi as well, but I want everyone to understand that Maharashtra has its own distinct identity and language. If one intends to live here, work here, and raise a family, then learning and using Marathi is essential," Naik said.
(With IANS inputs)
