Four app-based cab drivers have challenged Maharashtra's Marathi proficiency rule in the Bombay High Court. The new regulation links language ability to a state badge, directly deciding who can work on aggregator platforms like Uber and Ola. This puts the livelihoods of over 9.65 lakh taxi and auto drivers at immediate risk.
How We Got Here
The Maharashtra Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Rules, 2026, notified on August 12, made Marathi proficiency compulsory for public service vehicle badges. This condition effectively means aggregators like Uber and Ola can only onboard drivers holding this state-issued badge.
The Numbers
- The petition, filed by Mohd. Kasim Ahmad and three other drivers, will be mentioned before the acting Chief Justice on August 27.
- Non-compliance with the rule can lead to licence suspension for up to three months or cancellation after a written notice.
- The drivers' plea argues the rule is "ultra vires" the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which does not prescribe a language requirement.
- Transport Minister stated 1.65 lakh non-Marathi-speaking drivers attended a 105-day Marathi language campaign.
- The petitioners are backed by the Indian Federation of App-based Transport Workers (IFAT) and the Taxi & Grameen Panchayat Workers Union (TGPWU).
What Happens Next
🇮🇳 Why This Matters for India
For the thousands of migrant drivers in Mumbai and Pune relying on app-based aggregators, this rule directly impacts their ability to earn a livelihood in India's gig economy.
The Take
Maharashtra is effectively seizing a new lever of control over who drives on aggregator platforms, directly impacting their workforce composition. Aggregators like Uber and Ola are the clear losers here, as the state gains unprecedented power to dictate their driver supply.
Source:
MediaNama ↗