Mumbai Auto Unions Threaten Legal Action Over Mandatory Marathi Test for Drivers
The Mumbai Rickshawmen's Union, along with a city lawyer, has issued a stern warning that they will approach the Bombay High Court to challenge the Maharashtra government's decision to make proficiency in Marathi mandatory for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers starting May 1. This move has sparked significant controversy and resistance from various transport unions across the city.
Legal Notice Demands Withdrawal of "Unconstitutional" Order
Lawyer Faiyaz Alam Shaikh sent a formal notice on Thursday to transport ministry officials, demanding the suspension or withdrawal of what he described as an "arbitrary, unreasonable, discriminatory and unconstitutional order" within 15 days. Failure to comply, Shaikh stated, will result in the filing of a public interest litigation (PIL) in the Bombay High Court.
In the notice, Shaikh elaborated on the proposed enforcement, explaining that drivers will be required to read short passages, write simple text, and hold basic oral conversations related to fares and routes. He emphasized that repeated failure in these tests could lead to the suspension or cancellation of licenses, badges, or public service vehicle permits, putting many livelihoods at risk.
Government Justification and Pilot Drive Findings
The state government has defended its decision by citing Rule 24 of the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, as amended in 2019. According to officials, this rule provides the legal basis for imposing Marathi language tests on drivers to ensure better communication and service for passengers.
A pilot verification drive has already been initiated in the Mira-Bhayander area, where transport officials inspected 1,817 drivers. The inspection revealed that 111 drivers were allegedly unable to communicate adequately in Marathi, highlighting the government's concern over language barriers in public transport.
Unions and Drivers Voice Strong Opposition
Multiple transport unions are expected to convene in early May to decide their next course of action, which may include possible agitation and protests. Many drivers and union representatives argue that existing badge holders already met the requirement of possessing a working knowledge of Marathi when they entered the profession, making the new test redundant and unfair.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has announced that the verification drive will be rolled out across 59 regional and sub-regional transport offices statewide. He warned that the licenses of those failing the test would be cancelled, underscoring the government's commitment to enforcing the rule.
Broader Implications and Future Steps
The controversy raises broader questions about language requirements in public services and their impact on employment. As the May 1 deadline approaches, the situation remains tense, with legal battles and union meetings poised to shape the outcome. The outcome of this dispute could set a precedent for similar policies in other states, making it a closely watched issue in India's transport sector.
