Marathi Made Mandatory for Auto-Rickshaw Drivers in Maharashtra

Maharashtra's Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced that Marathi language proficiency will be mandatory for all auto-rickshaw drivers across the state. The new requirement, effective by May 1, mandates that drivers demonstrate their ability to read, write, and speak Marathi.

Samajwadi Party leader Abu Asim Azmi criticized the decision, arguing that schools should first provide adequate Marathi education rather than imposing pressure on students and workers. He questioned the practical implementation, asking *"where will Hindi, the national language, be spoken?"*

Azmi emphasized the need for a more supportive approach: *"If you want people to learn Marathi, provide books and classes, don't pressure them."* He highlighted unemployment concerns, noting that migrants from other states come to Mumbai seeking livelihoods and have the right to earn.

The pilot project aims to address irregularities in transport license issuance and will be implemented statewide over time, with strict action promised against non-compliance after the May 1 deadline.