Marathi mandatory, but how much? Inside Maharashtra’s auto-taxi language row
The Times of India1 newsroom
Picture: The Times of India
Maharashtra mandated Marathi for drivers, causing protests and anxiety among non-Marathi speakers. Drivers learned basic phrases for daily passenger interactions and work. Enforcement checks led to many show-cause notices and potential license cancellations. The government then granted a one-year extension for drivers to acquire working Marathi knowledge…
Non-Marathi-speaking taxi and auto drivers face potential license cancellation if they cannot demonstrate working knowledge of Marathi within the extended period.
Most affected
Non-Marathi-speaking taxi and auto drivers in Maharashtra — Must acquire working Marathi knowledge or risk losing their licenses.
Likely next
Whether the government begins formal assessment of driver language proficiency as the one-year deadline approaches.