Under the revised rules, Marathi proficiency will be assessed through direct interaction with each driver. The entire assessment process will be video-recorded.
Drivers found lacking practical knowledge of Marathi will initially be given one month to learn the language. If they fail to meet the requirement, their badge will be suspended for three months. Continued refusal to learn Marathi could lead to action to permanently cancel both the badge and permit.
The Transport Department has made it clear that drivers who refuse to learn or speak Marathi will not receive any further extension, and action will be taken as per the rules.
Around 9.65 lakh auto-rickshaw and taxi permits and badges have been issued across Maharashtra. Going forward, before a new permit or badge is issued, transport officials will directly interact with the driver to assess their practical knowledge of Marathi. The interaction will be video-recorded, and a new badge will be issued only after the driver is found proficient in Marathi.
The department has also received complaints that some applicants are allegedly obtaining auto-rickshaw and taxi permits and badges using fake certificates claiming 15 years of residence in Maharashtra.
Police have been directed to conduct a detailed verification of such suspicious certificates. Additional Transport Commissioner Ravi Gaikwad has been assigned responsibility for the investigation drive and directed to submit a report by the end of next month.
The enforcement measures will therefore cover both Marathi proficiency among passenger vehicle drivers and verification of residence certificates submitted for permits and badges.
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