Four app-based cab drivers have filed a petition in the Bombay High Court challenging Maharashtra’s new rule that mandates Marathi language proficiency for taxi, auto, and app-based cab drivers. The petition, Mohd. Kasim Ahmad v. State of Maharashtra, is scheduled for urgent hearing on August 27. The rule, notified on August 12, requires drivers to demonstrate Marathi proficiency to obtain or renew the state-issued badge necessary to operate on ride-hailing platforms like Uber, Ola, and Rapido, according to medianama.com.
The Maharashtra Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Rules, 2026, introduced Marathi proficiency as a mandatory condition for obtaining or renewing permits for public service vehicle drivers. The state issues badges that drivers must hold to work on app platforms, and these badges now require proof of Marathi language skills. Authorities can suspend or cancel licences for up to three months for non-compliance after issuing a written notice. The rule affects drivers’ access to ride-hailing apps since aggregators require the badge number during onboarding, effectively restricting platform access to those who meet the language requirement.
This rule impacts lakhs of drivers in Maharashtra by tying language proficiency to their livelihood and access to digital platforms. The state regulates the badge, which in turn controls who can work on ride-hailing apps, rather than regulating the platforms directly. The petitioners argue that the rule threatens the livelihoods of many drivers who may not meet the Marathi language criteria, raising concerns about the balance between local language promotion and economic rights of drivers. The case highlights tensions between state language policies and the gig economy’s operational models.
The Bombay High Court will hear the petition on August 27, when the acting Chief Justice will consider urgent directions. The outcome will determine the immediate enforceability of the Marathi proficiency rule and its impact on driver access to ride-hailing platforms in Maharashtra, affecting thousands of app-based cab drivers across the state.