The debate over making Marathi compulsory for autorickshaw and taxi drivers intensified on Monday, drawing sharp reactions from political leaders and transport stakeholders across Maharashtra. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam expressed support for the proposed policy but appealed to the government to reconsider the implementation timeline. He suggested that authorities should either extend the deadline to May 1 or allow a longer window of up to a year. According to him, such flexibility would give drivers sufficient time to learn and adapt to the Marathi language without facing undue pressure or disruption to their daily work routines and livelihoods.
Ahead of an important government meeting, Nirupam stated that while the intent behind the policy is understandable, its execution must be practical and inclusive. The Maharashtra government has proposed making Marathi mandatory for auto and taxi drivers from May 1, with a requirement to clear a language test conducted by the Regional Transport Office. Drivers who fail to meet the criteria may face strict penalties, including cancellation of permits, suspension of licences, and confiscation of official badges. These stringent provisions have raised concerns among driver communities, who fear sudden enforcement could create significant hardship.
Nirupam emphasised that there is no opposition to respecting the Marathi language and culture. He reiterated that everyone residing in Maharashtra should be able to communicate in Marathi, calling it a matter of cultural respect rather than dispute. However, he criticised the severity of the penalties outlined in the government resolution, describing them as excessive and potentially unfair. He cautioned that enforcing such rules without a reasonable transition period could negatively impact thousands of drivers. If individuals fail the test and lose their permits, it could severely affect their livelihoods and push many families into financial distress.
The issue has also sparked political friction within the ruling alliance as well as among opposition parties and various social groups. While some organisations have strongly supported the move, arguing it promotes local language and identity, others have opposed the immediate rollout, citing practical challenges faced by drivers. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has adopted a cautious approach, indicating that the government is open to discussions before finalising any decision. His stance suggests that authorities are weighing both cultural considerations and the economic implications of the policy.
A crucial meeting on the matter is scheduled to take place today at the Mantralaya, where key stakeholders will come together to deliberate on the proposal. The discussion will be held in the office of Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik and is expected to include transport officials, representatives of auto and taxi unions, labour leader Shashank Rao, and Sanjay Nirupam. With growing reactions from drivers and political leaders, the outcome of this meeting is likely to play a decisive role in shaping how the Marathi language mandate is implemented across Maharashtra in the coming months.