Maharashtra Proposes Law Amendment to Make Marathi Mandatory for Cab Drivers
More than 1.10 lakh drivers have completed training as Maharashtra says Marathi will be required for permits, renewals and app-based cab operations.
- On Wednesday, State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced that Maharashtra's mandatory Marathi language requirement now applies to app-based cab drivers, including those operating through Ola, Uber, and Rapido, with no exemptions allowed.
- The mandate follows amendments to the 1989 Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, which require practical Marathi proficiency for all commercial passenger transport permits and renewals, clarifying previous regulatory ambiguities.
- Drivers failing to comply face penalties under Provision 22, including license suspension for up to three months or cancellation. Minister Sarnaik said practical Marathi is necessary to "communicate with passengers, understand their concerns, and ensure a safe and convenient journey."
- After August 15, the transport department will conduct verification drives to take stricter action against drivers who have not completed the mandatory functional Marathi training program.
- Over 1.10 lakh drivers who completed the training are scheduled to receive certificates from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde at an event in Thane on August 17.
18 Articles
18 Articles
Maharashtra govt makes Marathi mandatory for cab, auto drivers
Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has amended a law to make “working knowledge of Marathi language” mandatory for cab and autorickshaw drivers, with non-compliance potentially leading to suspension or revocation of their driving licences, officials said on Thursday. The state Transport Department issued a notification, bringing into force the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles (Third Amendment) Rules, 2026 under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The office…
Maha to amend law to make Marathi mandatory for cab drivers
The Maharashtra government has proposed amendments to the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, making 'working knowledge of Marathi language' mandatory for cab drivers, with non-compliance potentially leading to suspension or revocation of driving licences.
Marathi mandatory for cab drivers in Maharashtra? New rules may suspend licences
Maharashtra plans to make Marathi language knowledge mandatory for all cab drivers. Drivers failing to meet this requirement face potential license suspension or cancellation. The state transport minister confirmed the August 15 deadline for compliance. This rule aims to improve communication and ensure safer journeys for passengers.
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