MUMBAI: Shiv Sena leader and former MP Sanjay Nirupam has flagged concerns over the state government's move to make knowledge of Marathi compulsory for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers. He urged state transport minister Pratap Sarnaik, a colleague from the same party, to reconsider the decision.
Nirupam's Letter to Transport Minister
In a letter dated April 23, Nirupam said the proposed implementation from May 8 has led to unease among thousands of drivers who depend on daily earnings. He cautioned that enforcing the rule through mandatory language testing could affect livelihoods.
Language Growth Through Acceptance
While reiterating that respect for Marathi is unquestionable, Nirupam said, 'A language grows through acceptance, not enforcement,' indicating that the current approach could lead to fear and uncertainty among drivers. He pointed out that a large section of Mumbai's taxi and auto drivers come from outside Maharashtra, including Gujarat, north India, Punjab, and southern states. A mandatory language test, he said, could add pressure on an already stretched system.
The Shiv Sena leader's remarks come amid broader discussions on language policy in Maharashtra. The state government has been promoting Marathi as a compulsory subject in schools and now extends this to public transport drivers. Critics argue that while promoting regional languages is important, mandatory testing for drivers could create unnecessary hurdles for those already struggling with high operational costs and traffic congestion.
Nirupam's intervention highlights internal dissent within the ruling party, as Sarnaik has been a vocal proponent of the Marathi language mandate. The transport department is yet to respond to the concerns raised by Nirupam. Meanwhile, driver unions have also expressed reservations, demanding more time for compliance and alternative methods to promote Marathi without punitive measures.
