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Sanjay Raut Defends Marathi Compulsory for Drivers, Slams Vote Bank Politics

Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut defended the Maharashtra government's decision to make Marathi compulsory for auto and taxi drivers. He argued that similar language requirements exist in other states like West Bengal, Gujarat, and Karnataka. Raut criticized those opposing the move for "vote bank politics," stating it benefits drivers to know the local language. The state transport minister confirmed that proficiency checks will begin from May 1, with unions to be consulted.

Key Points: Sanjay Raut on Marathi Compulsory for Auto Drivers

  • Sanjay Raut supports Marathi compulsory for drivers
  • Compares to language norms in other states like Bengal, Gujarat, Karnataka
  • State Transport Minister announced verification from May 1
  • Drivers must prove reading, writing, speaking skills in Marathi
3 min read

"Similar rules exist in other states; vote bank politics won't work," Sanjay Raut on Marathi being made compulsory for drivers

Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut supports Marathi language requirement for auto and taxi drivers in Maharashtra, comparing it to similar norms in other states.

"Disrespecting Marathi for the sake of vote banks...this won't work - Sanjay Raut"

Mumbai, April 28

Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Tuesday reacted to Marathi being made compulsory for auto and taxi drivers in the state, saying that similar language norms exist in other states as well.

Raut said, "West Bengal must have Bengali compulsory, in Gujarat--Gujarati, Kannada in Karnataka, Punjabi in Punjab... So, when we want the same thing for Maharashtra, then what is the problem?"

He further added, "Disrespecting Marathi for the sake of vote banks...this won't work...This is for their own good... Knowing the language of the locals will only help the drivers themselves."

This comes after the state Transport Minister earlier this month announced that knowledge of the Marathi language would be made compulsory for drivers of auto-rickshaws and taxis across Maharashtra. As part of the proposed move, the state government plans to begin verification of documents as well as drivers' Marathi language proficiency from May 1.

Earlier on April 23, Sarnaik reflected on the attempts being made to "promote and propagate Marathi" among the auto rickshaw and taxi drivers in the state, adding that a meeting will be held with the trade union leader on April 28.

The State Transport Minister said that the Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh will be teaching Marathi to the taxi drivers, while the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad will also jointly teach Marathi in the Konkan region.

"The Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh has taken up the responsibility of teaching Marathi to auto rickshaw drivers and taxi drivers in their various branches across the state. This will promote and propagate Marathi. The Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad will also jointly teach Marathi in the Konkan region," he said during PC.

He further stated that a meeting with several union leaders will be held to take suggestions on the matter. "A meeting will be held with Shashank Rao (Trade Union Leader- Auto Rickshaws and Taxi Drivers) on April 28th. We will meet with several union leaders to discuss their views. We will listen to them and present our own. If there are any suggestions, we will implement them," Sarnaik said.

Transport Minister Sarnaik warned that action will be taken against those who do not follow the rules after checking by May 1.

Drivers will be required to show they can read, write, and speak Marathi as part of the new initiative. This pilot project aims to tackle irregularities in issuing transport licences and will be rolled out statewide over time.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya Sharma
But how practical is this? Many drivers come from other states and work hard to feed their families. Instead of forcing language, why not provide free Marathi classes and give them time to learn? This deadline of May 1 is too harsh.
A
Arjun Menon
I'm from Kerala and have been driving auto in Mumbai for 15 years. I already know basic Marathi because I live here. It's not that hard to learn a few phrases. The problem is some people just don't want to respect the local language. Raut is right.
S
Sneha Patel
Finally, someone said it! We have been dealing with auto drivers who don't know a word of Marathi and then argue with local passengers. It's basic courtesy to know the state's language. 👏👏
J
James Anderson
I travel to Maharashtra frequently on business. While I understand the sentiment, this seems like a political move to distract from real issues like rising fuel prices and unemployment. Drivers need better working conditions, not more exams.
N
Nikhil Verma
Those saying this is impractical don't understand that language is about identity, not just communication. If we don't protect Marathi in Maharashtra, who will? And Raut is spot on about other states doing the same thing. Vote bank politics has damaged our society enough.
D
Divya Joshi

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