The Regional Transport Office in Thane, Maharashtra, has initiated checks on auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers to assess their working knowledge of the Marathi language. Under the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, Marathi proficiency is compulsory for obtaining commercial driving licenses and badges. During the drive, officials test drivers on basic Marathi skills. Drivers unable to speak or understand the language are being issued notices requiring them to acquire working knowledge within one month. The mandate has sparked debate among transport unions, who previously protested against verifying existing license holders, citing concerns over language politics.
