No Need to Make Drivers Marathi Experts, Basic Communication Is Enough: Devendra Fadnavis

Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has said that drivers working in the state do not need to become "Marathi experts", stressing that the ability to communicate at a basic level should be sufficient.

Fadnavis made the remarks amid an ongoing political debate in Maharashtra over the use of Marathi and the language skills expected from people working in the state.

The Chief Minister said language should primarily serve the purpose of communication and people should not be subjected to unnecessary pressure to achieve a high level of proficiency. According to him, drivers and other workers should be able to understand and communicate basic instructions, which is adequate for their professional responsibilities.

His comments come against the backdrop of renewed discussions over Marathi language requirements, particularly in sectors involving public-facing services and migrant workers.

The language issue has frequently featured in Maharashtra politics, with regional parties emphasising the importance of Marathi in the state's cultural and public life. At the same time, concerns have been raised over whether stringent language requirements could create difficulties for people who have moved to Maharashtra for employment.

Fadnavis's position appears to favour a balanced approach, where Marathi is encouraged as an important language of the state while practical communication remains the primary requirement for workers.

The remarks are likely to draw reactions from political parties and organisations that have been advocating stronger enforcement of Marathi language use in Maharashtra.

The debate has also highlighted the state's multilingual character, particularly in major urban centres such as Mumbai, Pune and Thane, where people from different parts of India live and work.

Fadnavis has previously spoken about the importance of Marathi while also stressing the need for social harmony and economic opportunities. His latest comments reflect the government's attempt to address the language debate without imposing what it considers unnecessary barriers on workers.

The issue is expected to remain politically sensitive as Maharashtra continues to debate the balance between preserving Marathi identity and accommodating the state's diverse workforce.