Cab Drivers Challenge Maharashtra's Marathi Proficiency Rule

Four app-based cab drivers have filed a legal challenge against a new rule in Maharashtra that requires drivers to have working knowledge of the Marathi language. The petition, filed at the Bombay High Court, argues that the rule infringes upon the fundamental rights of drivers and threatens the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands.

The rule mandates that drivers must possess a state-issued badge, which now includes a Marathi proficiency test. Ride-hailing platforms such as Uber, Ola, and Rapido are required to onboard only drivers with valid badges, effectively granting the state control over who can work on these platforms.

Introduced via the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Rules, 2026, the Marathi proficiency requirement is now a condition for obtaining or renewing permits for public service vehicles. Authorities can suspend or cancel licenses for non-compliance.

The drivers contend that the rule violates their constitutional rights under Articles 14, 19, and 21, and is beyond the scope of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which does not stipulate any language qualifications for drivers. They argue the state notification creates a new disqualification not enacted by Parliament.

The petition seeks an immediate stay on the rule to prevent hardship for the approximately 9.65 lakh drivers holding rickshaw and taxi permits. Drivers point out that despite state-offered Marathi language courses, a significant number of non-Marathi speakers face potential license suspension and cancellation.