Mumbai, April 28: Political tensions have escalated in Maharashtra regarding the requirement for rickshaw and taxi drivers to learn Marathi, with a six-month deadline set for compliance. Opposition parties have accused the government of imposing this decision forcefully.
Naseemuddin Siddiqui, national spokesperson for the National Communist Party (SP), stated in an interview, “Over 60% of the Muslim population in Maharashtra speaks Marathi. They often speak it better than local Marathi speakers. Additionally, 20-30% of others can understand and speak Marathi. Those who haven’t learned it yet should do so. Proficiency in any language is a valuable asset, and everyone should learn it.”
Waris Pathan, national spokesperson for AIMIM, expressed respect for the Marathi language but criticized the mandatory learning timeline. “We honor Marathi. It should be learned, spoken, and read. As a lawyer, I often encounter legal proceedings in Marathi, so I learn it. However, enforcing a strict timeline for learning the language is wrong.”
Congress leader and MLC Bhai Jagatap emphasized the importance of understanding the local language in any state but disagreed with the short time frame given. “It is not right to expect someone to learn it in just 20 days or a month. I have proven this point before.”
Shiv Sena spokesperson Krishna Hegde asserted, “Marathi is our state language and is prioritized in all schools. Everyone in Maharashtra should know Marathi. Those who do not should learn it.”
Shashank Rao, a leader from the BEST union, highlighted the linguistic diversity in Mumbai, stating, “In cities like Mumbai, 80-85% of auto and rickshaw drivers are not Marathi speakers. The transport department is preparing to conduct a state-level survey. We estimate that around 60% of auto and rickshaw drivers statewide may not speak Marathi.”
Congress leader Amin Patel remarked, “Every state prioritizes its local language. People in Maharashtra should know Marathi, especially since Mumbai is our economic capital. Individuals from various states come here for their livelihoods, making knowledge of Marathi essential.”
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My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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