Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has reiterated that Marathi will be mandatory for those doing business in Maharashtra, with enforcement set to begin May 1 through the RTO. Speaking in Thane, he defended the policy amid criticism, while also inaugurating a well revival project aimed at providing clean drinking water to citizens in the Ovala Majivda constituency.
Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has once again underlined that knowledge of Marathi is essential for those seeking to work or do business in the state. He said it is unreasonable to operate in Maharashtra while disregarding the local language, adding that pride in Marathi should not be questioned.
Enforcement From May 1, RTO To Act
Speaking at an event in Thane, Sarnaik said the state will implement the rule more strictly from May 1 through the Regional Transport Office. He clarified that the move is not new and has been in place since 2019, but will now see tighter enforcement.
Mumbai, Maharashtra: On Maharashtra government’s decision to mandate Marathi for auto and taxi drivers, Minister Pratap Sarnaik says, “This is completely not acceptable, but in Maharashtra, if someone wants to conduct business, they must know Marathi, because it is part of the… pic.twitter.com/OgeS2HA6zn
— IANS (@ians_india) April 13, 2026
He also noted that in Mira Bhayander, authorities are reviewing drivers who do not speak Marathi, with a report expected on April 29. A follow up meeting with RTO officials is scheduled for April 30 to discuss implementation.
No Rollback Despite Opposition
Sarnaik maintained that the government will not step back in the face of protests or political pressure. He stated that those driving taxis or rickshaws must know Marathi well enough to understand passengers, stressing that similar expectations exist in other states for local languages.
