The Maharashtra government is poised to make decisions regarding taxi and auto-rickshaw drivers who have not fulfilled the state’s requirement to learn Marathi, as the stipulated 100-day period for acquiring the language skills has come to an end. A significant meeting convened by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik is set for Wednesday, during which officials will assess whether to initiate enforcement actions or allow additional time for drivers to gain basic proficiency in Marathi.

Previously, the government issued warnings that licences or permits would be suspended for those drivers unable to show sufficient knowledge of the language. With the deadline now elapsed, the upcoming discussions will focus on whether to proceed with punitive measures or provide notices, warnings, or further opportunities for language learning.

This situation has generated considerable opposition from Congress party leaders, who argue that while the importance of Marathi should be acknowledged and promoted, drivers should not face penalties without receiving adequate time and support for language acquisition. Congress MLA Amin Patel has expressed intentions to communicate with Sarnaik to request an extension of the deadline, highlighting the government’s failure to create sufficient employment opportunities while targeting those striving to earn a living.

Concerns Raised By Opposition Leaders

Congress leader Aslam Sheikh has similarly voiced objections to immediate punitive action against drivers, suggesting the establishment of a proper standard operating procedure to assist them in learning Marathi. Sheikh proposed the introduction of night schools to facilitate access to language classes for those who work during the day hours.

In response, the government has emphasised the success of its language-training initiative, with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde noting that around 1.25 lakh auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers from non-Marathi backgrounds have successfully completed functional Marathi training and passed the language examination. Speaking at a function in Thane, Shinde underlined that the campaign aims to encourage voluntary adoption of the language rather than enforcing it.

Shinde described Marathi as a “language of devotion and not compulsion” and stressed the need for language to foster unity rather than division among people. The initiative was launched as a collaboration among several organisations, including the Maharashtra Transport Department and the State Marathi Development Institute, alongside other cultural bodies.

Future Phases of the Language Initiative

The programme attracted over 1.65 lakh transport workers, with more than 1.25 lakh completing the language course. Shinde portrayed the campaign as the beginning of a new phase for Marathi pride, advocating for a positive approach to learning the language rather than through legal measures. He urged Marathi speakers to encourage non-native speakers in their efforts to embrace the language.

The initiative was prompted by a government survey that highlighted significant communication gaps among drivers who do not speak Marathi. Additionally, it is notable that existing regulations from 1989 stipulate the necessity of basic Marathi knowledge for obtaining driving licences in Maharashtra. This adds further complexity to the current situation.

Marathi Language Minister Uday Samant has indicated that future phases of the initiative will aim to further enhance the proficiency of drivers in Marathi, moving beyond functional language skills to more advanced literary capabilities. With the meeting on Wednesday, significant decisions lie ahead concerning the approach the government will take regarding those who failed to meet the language requirements.

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