The Maharashtra government on Tuesday said it will defer enforcing its decision to make Marathi mandatory for auto rickshaw and taxi drivers.
On April 14, the state government made it mandatory for all licensed rickshaw and taxi drivers to have basic knowledge of Marathi from May 1. State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik had warned that the licences of drivers who are unable to clear the Marathi proficiency test will be cancelled.
On Tuesday, the government’s publicity department quoted Sarnaik as having said at a meeting with representatives of auto rickshaw and taxi drivers’ organisations that all stakeholders had given a positive response and were supporting the decision to make Marathi mandatory.
“Everyone has accepted the stance that ‘if you want to do business in Maharashtra, knowing Marathi is essential’,” Sarnaik was quoted as having said.
The government stated that instructions have been given to all Regional Transport Offices to conduct a special inspection campaign from Friday. During this drive, action will be taken against drivers who violate rules or those involved in illegal transport.
“However, licenses will not be cancelled solely on the grounds that the driver does not know Marathi,” the government said, adding that “action will be taken only in accordance with other legal provisions”.
After the campaign ends on August 15, a report will be submitted and a policy decision will be taken in the matter, Sarnaik said.
Following the announcement, non-Marathi drivers’ unions withdrew their call for a strike on May 4, The Hindu reported.
The government also said that Regional Transport Offices will provide facilities for drivers who are interested in learning Marathi. Booklets and e-books for learning the language will also be made available.
Drivers who learn Marathi will be issued certificates, which will be required while renewing licenses, Sarnaik was quoted as having said.
The training for drivers will be provided in collaboration with the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad and the Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh.
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