Cab drivers challenge Maharashtra Marathi rule in HC

Four app-based cab drivers have approached the Bombay High Court challenging the Maharashtra government's decision to make working knowledge of Marathi compulsory for auto-rickshaw, taxi and app-based cab drivers. The petition, filed through advocate Vivek Shukla, is expected to be mentioned before the Chief Justice on August 26, with the drivers seeking an immediate stay on the government notification issued on August 12.

The petitioners argue that the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 does not prescribe language proficiency for driving licences or permits, and that the requirement violates fundamental rights under Articles 14, 19 and 21 of the Constitution. Nearly 9.65 lakh auto and taxi permits have been issued in Maharashtra, and the drivers say implementation could threaten livelihoods, especially for poor and migrant workers. The August 12 notification empowers transport authorities to suspend licences for three months and cancel permits for non-compliance.

The drivers have cited a March 2017 Bombay High Court judgment that struck down a similar 2016 circular requiring Marathi proficiency for autorickshaw permits. Separately, since August 20, transport officials have assessed 5,211 drivers in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, with 722 found unable to speak Marathi and issued notices. Auto drivers began a three-day strike on August 21 opposing the rule.