Mumbai Auto-Taxi Unions Protest Marathi Language Mandate
Auto-taxi unions oppose Marathi mandate, Sarnaik steps in
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
Auto-rickshaw and taxi unions in Mumbai, Maharashtra, are mobilizing against a new state mandate requiring drivers to speak basic Marathi. The unions view this as discriminatory towards migrant workers. A protest is planned for May 4, and a meeting with Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik is scheduled for Monday.
- 01Maharashtra's transport department mandates basic Marathi for auto-taxi drivers.
- 02Unions argue this requirement discriminates against migrant workers.
- 03A mass protest is planned for May 4 in Mumbai.
- 04Union leader Shashank Rao is spearheading the opposition.
- 05Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik will meet with union representatives.
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In Maharashtra, the state transport department has mandated that auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers must possess basic Marathi language skills, with non-compliance risking license renewal. This directive has sparked outrage among unions in Mumbai, who argue it discriminates against migrant workers. Shashank Sharad Rao, leader of the Autorickshaw Chalak Malak Sanghatana Sanyukt Kruti Samiti Maharashtra (ACMSSKSM), announced a meeting for drivers to discuss their opposition to the requirement, which is set to take effect on May 1. A statewide protest is scheduled for May 4. In response to the unrest, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik will meet with union leaders, including Rao and Sanjay Nirupam, to discuss the issue further.
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The language requirement could affect the livelihoods of many migrant drivers who may not speak Marathi, leading to potential job losses.
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