Language Mandate Stirs Debate over Marathi Exams for Drivers

Sanjay Nirupam, a Shiv Sena leader, has urged the Maharashtra government to reconsider making Marathi exams mandatory for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers. He argues the decision creates fear among drivers not fluent in Marathi and risks disrupting Mumbai's transport system. Unions threaten a state-wide protest.

Sanjay Nirupam, a prominent Shiv Sena leader, has called on the Maharashtra government to reassess its decision to impose Marathi language exams on auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers. In his letter to Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, Nirupam emphasized a more humanitarian approach in considering this language requirement.

Nirupam underscored the respect for Marathi culture, yet expressed concerns that enforcing exams could undermine the livelihoods of drivers for whom Marathi isn't their native language. He warned of negative impacts on Mumbai's bustling transport infrastructure by upsetting a significant portion of the driver community.

Facing a possible statewide protest, trade unions representing these drivers have voiced their opposition to the new mandate, arguing that it generates fear and insecurity. As a diverse city, Mumbai's workforce includes drivers from different regions, crucial to supporting its fast-paced environment, Nirupam noted.