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Politics
Maharashtra Minister Sarnaik warns action against RTO officials fining drivers ahead of Marathi deadline
✍️ Mid-Day
🗓 24 Aug 2026, 09:10 PM
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State minister Dilip Sarnaik said RTO staff who impose fines on motorists before the prescribed Marathi language deadline will be penalised.
Maharashtra Transport Minister Dilip Sarnaik announced that Regional Transport Office (RTO) officials who levy fines on vehicle owners before the official Marathi language compliance deadline will face disciplinary action. He said the deadline, set by the state government, requires drivers to demonstrate basic proficiency in Marathi as part of the renewal process.
According to the minister, some RTO officers have been issuing penalties prematurely, targeting motorists who have not yet reached the stipulated date. Sarnaik warned that such practices undermine the intended transition period and will be investigated.
The transport department has been instructed to review all pending fines and ensure that enforcement aligns strictly with the deadline. Officials found violating the directive could be suspended or subjected to other administrative measures, the minister added.
According to the minister, some RTO officers have been issuing penalties prematurely, targeting motorists who have not yet reached the stipulated date. Sarnaik warned that such practices undermine the intended transition period and will be investigated.
The transport department has been instructed to review all pending fines and ensure that enforcement aligns strictly with the deadline. Officials found violating the directive could be suspended or subjected to other administrative measures, the minister added.