Mumbai: In a fresh push to enforce Marathi language norms for public transport drivers, the Maharashtra transport department will now assess the practical Marathi-speaking ability of applicants seeking new auto-rickshaw, taxi and aggregator cab permits and badges through direct interaction with RTO officials. The entire verification process for new permits and badges will be video-recorded, transport minister Pratap Sarnaik announced on Wednesday.Speaking at a press conference, Sarnaik said badges would henceforth be issued only after confirming a driver’s working knowledge of Marathi. The rule, which has existed since 1989, will be enforced strictly from Aug 20, under amended legal provisions notified on Aug 12.Drivers found lacking adequate Marathi skills will initially receive a one-month notice to learn the language. Failure to do so could lead to suspension of their badge for up to three months. Continued refusal may result in cancellation of both badge and driving licence, the minister warned.The transport department has also launched a crackdown on alleged use of fake domicile certificates for obtaining permits and badges. RTO officials have been directed to verify claims through document scrutiny, police inquiries and residence checks before approving applications.Sarnaik said additional transport commissioner Ravi Gaikwad will oversee the campaign and submit a report by the end of next month.As part of the state’s 105-day Marathi language campaign conducted by literary organisations, around 1.65 lakh non-Marathi-speaking auto and taxi drivers underwent language training. The minister congratulated participants who were awarded certificates at a recent function in Thane.Emphasising that the government’s objective is not to deny employment to migrants, Sarnaik said Maharashtra remains welcoming to people from across India, but knowledge of Marathi is essential for serving commuters and preserving the state’s linguistic heritage.He also highlighted welfare measures for drivers through the Anand Dighe Auto-Rickshaw and Taxi Drivers Welfare Corporation, which has enrolled over 37,000 members and been allocated Rs 57 crore for various schemes, including educational assistance, healthcare support and a Rs 10,000 benefit for drivers above 65 years.
