Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 11: Maharashtra Congress MLA Nana Patole on Saturday strongly criticised the state government’s decision to make Marathi language mandatory for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers, calling it a “foolish idea” and alleging that it could harm the state’s cultural harmony.

Patole said the move reflected a misguided approach and warned that the government was “heading towards its own downfall” by attempting to impose language-based restrictions.

“The government seems intent on bringing about its own downfall. We are Indians, and our identity lies in diversity of languages, religions, and castes. To attempt to break Maharashtra based on language and destroy its heritage is nothing but a foolish idea,” Patole said.

His remarks come after Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced that knowledge of Marathi would be made compulsory for all auto-rickshaw drivers across the state. The initiative is aimed at ensuring drivers can read, write, and speak Marathi, with enforcement checks expected by May 1.

Patole’s comments were echoed by Samajwadi Party leader Abu Asim Azmi, who also opposed the move, saying that students should not be pressured and that language learning should be encouraged through education rather than compulsion.

Azmi said every state has its own language and stressed that Hindi also holds national importance, questioning where it would be spoken if strict linguistic mandates are enforced.

Meanwhile, Minister Sarnaik defended the decision, stating that it applies statewide and is intended to address irregularities in transport licensing while promoting the use of Marathi. He added that the policy will be implemented in phases and compliance will be monitored strictly.