MUMBAI: Practical knowledge of Marathi has been made mandatory for all commercial passenger vehicle drivers in Maharashtra, including those operating app-based cabs, with the state government warning of strict action against violators.The new directive, announced by Maharashtra transport minister Pratap Sarnaik on Wednesday, has been formalized through the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Rules, 2026, which introduce clearer language requirements into the existing 1989 rules.Under the amended rules, drivers who fail to demonstrate a working knowledge of Marathi could face suspension of their driving authorization for three months. Repeated violations may result in permanent cancellation of their permits.“These amendments remove ambiguity in the rules and make the importance of practical Marathi for passenger-vehicle drivers clearer. Practical knowledge of the local language is necessary to communicate with passengers, understand their concerns, and ensure a safe and convenient journey,” Sarnaik said.The amendments apply to drivers and permit holders of auto-rickshaws, taxis and app-based motor cabs equipped with electronic meters, including those operating through platforms such as Ola and Uber.In a significant change to Rule 4 of the Maharashtra Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, “working knowledge of Marathi language” has been added as a prerequisite for those applying for commercial driving authorization. A new provision under Rule 22 also requires authorized drivers of app-based cabs to possess practical knowledge of the language.The requirement extends beyond drivers to permit holders. Under amended Rules 78 and 85, the concerned permit holder must also possess practical knowledge of Marathi.The state government clarified that the changes are amendments to the Maharashtra Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, and do not constitute a new law. The move follows complaints that non-Marathi-speaking drivers were using ambiguities in the earlier rules to avoid compliance.Sarnaik said the level of Marathi proficiency would have to be deemed “satisfactory” by the concerned licensing authorities to ensure effective communication between drivers and passengers.
