📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and
Politics
Maharashtra to Suspend Rickshaw and Taxi Drivers Lacking Marathi Skills from Aug 20
✍️ Mid-Day
🗓 19 Aug 2026, 08:03 PM
👁 1
The Maharashtra government announced that from 20 August, rickshaw and taxi drivers who cannot speak Marathi will face suspension, as part of a new language proficiency requirement for operating vehicles.
The Maharashtra government has issued a directive that will suspend rickshaw and taxi drivers who are not proficient in Marathi from 20 August onward. The move is part of a broader initiative to ensure that drivers can effectively communicate with passengers and comply with state regulations.
Officials say the language requirement is aimed at improving customer service and reducing misunderstandings during rides. The policy will be enforced by the state's transport department, which will conduct language tests for all registered drivers.
The suspension is expected to affect thousands of drivers across the state, particularly in rural areas where Marathi is not the primary language. Transport associations have warned that the new rule could lead to job losses and increased pressure on drivers to learn Marathi quickly.
Some driver unions have called for a phased implementation and training support, while the government maintains that the policy is essential for public safety and service quality.
Officials say the language requirement is aimed at improving customer service and reducing misunderstandings during rides. The policy will be enforced by the state's transport department, which will conduct language tests for all registered drivers.
The suspension is expected to affect thousands of drivers across the state, particularly in rural areas where Marathi is not the primary language. Transport associations have warned that the new rule could lead to job losses and increased pressure on drivers to learn Marathi quickly.
Some driver unions have called for a phased implementation and training support, while the government maintains that the policy is essential for public safety and service quality.