Maharashtra Mandates Marathi For Auto Drivers

Maharashtra Cabinet Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced that basic Marathi proficiency is required for public transport operators in the state. This move reaffirms a 1989 state regulation and aims to improve communication between drivers and passengers.

The minister stated that authorities will evaluate drivers' Marathi language skills during licence and permit renewals. Drivers who fail to demonstrate proficiency in Marathi may face cancellation of licences and permits.

To support this initiative, the government launched the 'Balasaheb Thackeray Marathi Language Course Initiative,' which provided language training to non-Marathi auto drivers across 36 districts. Over 1,40,000 out of 1,65,000 registered drivers successfully completed the training.

Sarnaik warned that uncooperative drivers will face strict administrative action, but emphasized that the state does not intend to affect anyone's livelihood.

In addition to the language initiative, Sarnaik addressed the issue of potholes on Maharashtra's roads. He instructed local authorities to expedite repairs, prioritizing high-traffic locations such as State Transport (ST) bus depots.

The minister also dismissed protests by opposition leader Sanjay Raut, urging leaders to avoid politicizing civic infrastructure problems.

Sarnaik expressed surprise over NCP (SP) leader Jitendra Awhad's recent discontent and reiterated his party's position that Eknath Shinde should remain Chief Minister if their alliance secures a majority in upcoming elections.

Regarding ongoing agitations over unpaid contractor dues, Sarnaik assured that Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is working towards an equitable settlement. The total amount of unpaid dues is ₹86,000 crore.

The minister also backed cross-party calls requesting extra time for voter roll verification, recognizing that the Special Summary Revision (SIR) process remains novel to many voters.

The mandatory Marathi language requirement for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers is expected to improve communication and reduce conflicts between drivers and passengers. The government's initiatives to repair potholes and address unpaid contractor dues aim to improve the overall quality of life for Maharashtra's residents.

The political dynamics in Maharashtra continue to evolve, with Sarnaik's statements on Eknath Shinde's leadership and the Mahayuti alliance's position on upcoming elections. The state's residents will be closely watching the developments in the coming months.

In conclusion, the Maharashtra government's initiatives to promote Marathi language proficiency among auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers, repair potholes, and address unpaid contractor dues demonstrate its commitment to improving the lives of its residents. The state's political landscape continues to be shaped by the interactions between various parties and leaders, and the upcoming elections will be a significant test for the ruling alliance.