Nagpur

Congress MLA Nana Patole on Saturday criticised the Maharashtra government's decision to make Marathi mandatory for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers, calling it a “foolish idea” and alleging it could harm the state's inclusive identity.

Speaking in Nagpur, Patole said Maharashtra’s strength lies in diversity and warned against dividing society on linguistic lines.

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

Samajwadi Party leader Abu Asim Azmi also opposed the move, saying language promotion should come through education rather than compulsion.

“Every state has its own language. If it is to be made compulsory, schools should teach Marathi first, especially for those who are not proficient. If you want people to learn Marathi, provide books and classes, don’t pressure them,” Azmi said.

The reactions came after Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced that Marathi proficiency would be mandatory for rickshaw drivers across the state.

According to the new policy, drivers will have to demonstrate the ability to read, write and speak Marathi. The government said the initiative is part of a pilot project aimed at addressing irregularities in issuing transport licences and will gradually be implemented statewide.

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Sarnaik also said enforcement checks would begin by May 1, and action would be taken against those who fail to comply.