Maharashtra Grants Drivers One Year to Learn Marathi

The Maharashtra government has granted autorickshaw and taxi drivers across the state a one-year period to acquire functional knowledge of Marathi, suspending immediate punitive measures that had sparked protests and a legal challenge. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the decision on August 27, 2026, following a meeting with driver representatives who sought more time to comply with the language requirement. The announcement comes just days after a statewide enforcement drive began on August 20, 2026. During roadside assessments, Regional Transport Office teams tested drivers on practical communication skills, such as discussing fares, routes, and destinations.