The Maharashtra Transport Department has issued notices to 777 drivers for failing practical Marathi language tests. Drivers have one month to comply or face license suspension.

  • 777 drivers received notices for lacking practical Marathi proficiency during a statewide inspection.
  • A total of 5,211 drivers were tested, with 3,942 inspections conducted in Mumbai alone.
  • Drivers are granted a one-month grace period to acquire functional Marathi skills.
  • Non-compliance may lead to license suspension for up to three months or total cancellation.

In a significant move to enforce linguistic proficiency, the Maharashtra Transport Department has issued notices to 777 drivers who failed to demonstrate working knowledge of practical Marathi. This action is part of an ongoing statewide inspection campaign aimed at ensuring that public transport operators can communicate effectively with the local populace.

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik confirmed that the drive commenced on August 20, following the expiration of the August 15 deadline. During the inspection, a total of 5,211 drivers across the state were tested, including a massive 3,942 in Mumbai. The government has emphasized that while drivers are being given sufficient time to learn, strict enforcement will follow the deadline.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this enforcement marks a pivotal shift in the regulatory landscape of Maharashtra's transport sector. Under the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Rules, 2026, language proficiency has transitioned from a social preference to a mandatory legal requirement for permit renewals and new badge issuances, directly impacting the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of drivers.

'Language proficiency is no longer optional; it is now a core component of professional licensing in the state.'

The inspection process is rigorous and conducted on the streets. RTO Marshals visit busy transit hubs such as Dadar and Andheri to conduct real-time oral exams. Drivers are grilled with everyday conversational questions such as, "Where is the rickshaw stand?", "Do you have change?", and "How do I pay you?" to test their functional fluency. These interactions are being recorded on video for official documentation.

Historical Background

To facilitate this transition, the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad and Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh have been running the ‘Hindu Hruday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray Marathi Language Campaign’ for the past 105 days. This initiative has seen a massive response, with approximately 1.65 lakh drivers completing training and receiving certificates in the presence of high-ranking state officials.

Did You Know?: Mumbai alone accounts for over 4.62 lakh rickshaw and taxi license holders, making it the focal point of this linguistic enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What are the penalties for failing the Marathi proficiency requirement?
Answer: Under Provision 22(3A), drivers facing non-compliance may face license suspension for up to three months or complete cancellation of their license.

Question 2: Does this rule apply to app-based cab drivers?
Answer: Yes, the requirement for functional Marathi knowledge also applies to app-based motor cab drivers operating vehicles with electronic meters.