Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Apr 24: A proposed language rule in Maharashtra has triggered a political flashpoint, drawing sharp reactions from unions even as the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) stepped up its campaign by launching grassroots Marathi classes for drivers.
At the centre of the controversy is a government directive mandating auto-rickshaw, taxi and app-based drivers to demonstrate proficiency in Marathi to continue operating. The rule is scheduled to come into effect from May 1 and will apply to drivers associated with platforms such as Ola, Uber and Rapido.
MNS leader Amit Thackeray dismissed threats of strikes by non-Marathi drivers and asserted that the policy would be implemented. He urged that any protests remain peaceful but issued a strong warning against attacks on Marathi drivers, stating that any aggression would be met with retaliation.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has backed strict enforcement of the directive, describing it as necessary to ensure effective communication in the state’s official language.
Amid the growing debate, the MNS has begun offering Marathi lessons to drivers. In Mira Road, local leader Sandeep Rane initiated roadside classes that reportedly attracted around 100 to 150 participants. Drivers attending the sessions said the initiative would help them comply with the new rule and safeguard their livelihoods.
However, tensions escalated in Mira Bhayandar, where a meeting of auto union members turned confrontational. Clashes broke out between MNS activists and attendees during an address by advocate Gunaratna Sadavarte, prompting police intervention and detentions.
Unions have strongly opposed the mandate, warning of statewide protests if it is not withdrawn. Shashank Rao, president of the Auto Rickshaw and Taximen Union, said protests could begin from May 4. Another union leader, KK Tiwari, raised concerns over possible corruption in the certification process, alleging that it could be misused for monetary gains.
On the ground, many drivers are caught between compliance and economic survival. Ramesh Yadav, a taxi driver from Uttar Pradesh, said he is willing to learn Marathi but pointed to the difficulty of balancing classes with daily work.
With the deadline approaching, the issue has brought to the fore a complex intersection of language, identity and livelihood in Maharashtra’s urban transport sector.