News india 'No Need To Become Experts': Fadnavis Tells Auto Drivers Amid Protests Over Marathi Language Drive'No Need To Become Experts': Fadnavis Tells Auto Drivers Amid Protests Over Marathi Language DrivePublished By :,Last Updated: August 24, 2026, 18:50 ISTDevendra Fadnavis said those who need more time to learn the language will be given an extension by the government.
“Hindi-speaking auto-rickshaw drivers do not need to become experts in Marathi; they should know enough functional Marathi to get by.
The Transport Department began inspections from August 20 to assess drivers’ Marathi proficiency.
The Marathi language rule for auto drivers will be enforced with some flexibility; those needing more time to learn the language will receive an extension from the government.
The Marathi language test for auto and taxi drivers in Maharashtra could set a national precedent if it is rolled out statewide.
News india 'No Need To Become Experts': Fadnavis Tells Auto Drivers Amid Protests Over Marathi Language Drive
'No Need To Become Experts': Fadnavis Tells Auto Drivers Amid Protests Over Marathi Language Drive
Published By :
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Last Updated: August 24, 2026, 18:50 IST
Devendra Fadnavis said those who need more time to learn the language will be given an extension by the government.
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Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis (File photo)
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday sought to ease concerns over the state government’s Marathi language directive for commercial vehicle drivers, saying Hindi-speaking drivers do not need to be fluent in Marathi but should know enough of the language to communicate with passengers.
The Maharashtra Chief Minister stated that adequate opportunities will be provided to those who need to learn the language.
“Hindi-speaking auto-rickshaw drivers do not need to become experts in Marathi; they should know enough functional Marathi to get by. Those who need more time will be given an extension by the government. No one will be treated unfairly on the basis of language. The BJP–Shiv Sena–NCP Mahayuti government will not allow anyone to face injustice because of their language," CM Fadnavis said.
Auto Drivers Launch 3-Day Strike Over Marathi Rule
Fadnavis’ clarification came after a section of autorickshaw drivers in Mumbai launched a three-day strike on Monday against the government’s directive. Drivers staged protests, including a roadblock on Kandivli Link Road, and raised concerns about penalties and the financial burden associated with complying with the rule.
The controversy follows amendments to the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules that require authorised drivers of motor cabs fitted with electronic meters to have a “working knowledge of Marathi". Drivers found unable to demonstrate the required proficiency are issued notices and given one month to acquire the language skills and appear for an examination. Repeated non-compliance can result in suspension or cancellation of their authorisation.
What Is Maharashtra’s Marathi Directive For Drivers?
The controversy follows amendments to the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules that require authorised drivers of motor cabs fitted with electronic meters to have a “working knowledge of Marathi". Drivers found unable to demonstrate the required proficiency are issued notices and given one month to acquire the language skills and appear for an examination. Repeated non-compliance can result in suspension or cancellation of their authorisation.
The Transport Department began inspections from August 20 to assess drivers’ Marathi proficiency. According to the latest figures, 5,211 autorickshaw and taxi drivers have been checked across Maharashtra, including 3,942 in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Of those inspected in the MMR, 722 were found to lack knowledge of Marathi and were issued notices.
Drivers protesting in Mumbai have argued that older and less-educated members of the profession may struggle to meet the requirement within the stipulated period. The implementation has also affected auto and taxi availability on some routes across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, with several drivers reportedly avoiding areas where checks are being conducted.
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Key Questions Answered Powered by Ask News18 Will the Marathi language rule be enforced strictly? The Marathi language rule for auto drivers will be enforced with some flexibility; those needing more time to learn the language will receive an extension from the government. Drivers are not expected to be fluent but should know enough functional Marathi to communicate with passengers. Could this policy spread to other Indian states? The Marathi language test for auto and taxi drivers in Maharashtra could set a national precedent if it is rolled out statewide. Powered by Ask News18
About the Author Manisha Roy Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manish... Read More
First Published: August 24, 2026, 18:50 IST
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