Maharashtra Minister for Social Justice Sanjay Shirsat on Wednesday supported the Marathi mandatory rule for taxi and auto drivers in state, citing respect for local language and cultural respect.
According to the IANS, speaking on the issue, Shirsat said that people working in any state should learn and use the local language.
He gave examples of other states, stating that in West Bengal people use Bengali, while in Karnataka the local language is widely used in daily life and business.
Identity and culture of states
The minister emphasised that every state has its own identity, culture and language, which should be respected by residents and workers alike, as per the IANS.
He pointed out that in Mumbai, many shops already display signboards in Marathi, reflecting the state’s cultural identity.
Support for govt decision
Shirsat said the Maharashtra government’s move is in line with practices followed across the country and should not be seen as controversial.
He added that such steps help preserve regional identity while ensuring better communication between service providers and the public.
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra: Minister Sanjay Shirsat says, “The decision in Maharashtra requiring auto-rickshaw drivers to speak Marathi is welcome. Wherever you live, you should know the language of that state—there is nothing wrong in that. If you go to West Bengal,… pic.twitter.com/w8rYUYghUL
— IANS (@ians_india) April 15, 2026
Marathi mandatory for drivers in Maharashtra from May 1
Maharashtra government on Tuesday announced that Marathi will be mandatory for all licensed auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers in state from May 1.
The mandatory rule comes into effect from May 1 which is observed as Maharashtra Day, officials said.
The decision was announced by Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik.
An official statement said that the state transport department will carry out a special inspection drive through 59 regional and sub-regional offices.
Officials will check whether drivers can read and write Marathi. Those who fail to meet the requirement may face cancellation of their licences.
Rule already exists
According to Sarnaik, knowledge of the local language has always been a rule while issuing licences to drivers. However, complaints have increased in recent years, especially in cities such as Mumbai, Nagpur and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
Passengers have reported that many drivers are unable or unwilling to communicate in Marathi.
Emphasis on respect for language
Sarnaik said that learning the local language is a responsibility for anyone working in a particular region.
He added that while people should take pride in their mother tongue, they must also respect and learn the language of the state where they earn their livelihood.
The government has warned that the drivers who do not comply with the rule will have their licences cancelled, the statement said.
It said that the transport officials who issue licences without proper checks may also face strict action.
“The move aims to improve communication between drivers and passengers and promote the use of Marathi in daily life,” the officials said.
(with IANS inputs)