Akhilesh Yadav Criticizes Maharashtra Govt Over Marathi Test

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has criticized the Maharashtra government's decision to assess taxi and auto-rickshaw drivers on their working knowledge of Marathi.

In a post on social media, Yadav shared a video showing North Indian auto-rickshaw drivers in Mumbai speaking about their difficulties after their licenses were reportedly suspended over their inability to speak Marathi.

Yadav stated that every state's mother tongue should be respected and promoted, but no language should be politicized. He warned that such an approach could create divisions in the country's linguistic and emotional unity.

Targeting the BJP, Yadav questioned whether imposing a language requirement on people seeking to work in another state could violate their constitutional right to carry out a profession across the country.

He also asked why a similar condition should not apply to foreign companies operating in Mumbai. Yadav alleged that the BJP's policies disproportionately affect poor and disadvantaged sections and questioned whether commercial interests could be behind attempts to restrict auto-rickshaws.

He further warned that forcing drivers to work under mental pressure could pose risks to both drivers and passengers.

The remarks come after Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced that taxi, auto-rickshaw, and app-based cab drivers would be required to have working knowledge of Marathi.

As part of a statewide campaign, RTO teams are conducting a 16-question test for drivers. Those unable to provide satisfactory answers are being given a month's notice and warned that their badges could be suspended if they fail to meet the requirement subsequently.

Sarnaik said the government did not intend to affect anyone's livelihood but wanted to protect Marathi language, Maharashtra's identity, and culture. He said 1.65 lakh drivers had already undergone Marathi training and received certificates during an earlier 105-day campaign.

The decision has sparked controversy, with many questioning the need for a language test for drivers. The issue has also raised concerns about the potential impact on the livelihoods of drivers who are not proficient in Marathi.

The Maharashtra government's move is seen as an attempt to promote the Marathi language and culture in the state. However, critics argue that it could lead to discrimination against drivers who are not from Maharashtra or do not speak Marathi.

The controversy highlights the complex issue of language and identity in India, where multiple languages are spoken across different states. It also raises questions about the role of language in defining a state's identity and culture.

In conclusion, the Maharashtra government's decision to introduce a Marathi language test for drivers has sparked a heated debate. While the government's intention is to promote the Marathi language and culture, critics argue that it could lead to discrimination and violate the constitutional rights of drivers.