# Marathi now mandatory for Maharashtra cab drivers

2026-08-13T15:07:13+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 3 independent outlets

The Maharashtra government will require all auto-rickshaw, taxi and app-based cab drivers to have a 'working knowledge of Marathi' from August 15, with no extension of the deadline, according to Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. Drivers who fail to comply face licence suspension for up to three months and possible revocation of authorisation. The draft amendment to the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, covers drivers of vehicles fitted with electronic meters. However, BJP Transport Cell president Haji Arfat Sheikh has demanded a 100-day extension, citing heavy rainfall that disrupted training across cities. He claims 75% of drivers already have basic Marathi knowledge. Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam indicated that an extension could be considered. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar said forcing someone to learn the language was wrong.

## Coverage

- livemint.com <https://www.livemint.com/news/india/marathi-to-be-mandatory-for-cab-drivers-in-maharashtra-licence-at-stake-for-noncompliance-11786609933528.html>
- rediff.com <https://www.rediff.com/news/report/maharashtra-to-amend-law-to-make-marathi-mandatory-for-cab-drivers/20260813.htm>
- indiatoday.in <https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/marathi-mandatory-for-maharashtra-cab-auto-drivers-100-day-extension-sought-2970331-2026-08-13?utm_source=rss>

Tags: cab drivers, licence suspension, Maharashtra, Marathi language, motor vehicle rules, Pratap Sarnaik
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