Marathi rule rollback: Shiv Sena chafes at ally BJP's unilateral move
Shiv Sena leaders are upset over CM Fadnavis's decision to relax the Marathi language rule for auto and taxi drivers, calling it a unilateral move that undermines their core ideology.
Tensions have surfaced within Maharashtra's ruling Mahayuti alliance after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis relaxed a controversial rule requiring commercial autorickshaw and taxi drivers to speak functional Marathi. The decision, announced on Thursday, has drawn sharp criticism from the Shiv Sena, a key alliance partner, which claims it was not consulted.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, a Shiv Sena leader, had earlier mandated that drivers demonstrate basic Marathi proficiency by August 15. Following opposition from drivers' unions, Fadnavis intervened, granting a one-year grace period during which no action will be taken against non-compliant drivers.
Shiv Sena leaders expressed displeasure over the lack of coordination. "The CM should have taken us into confidence before making such an announcement," one leader said, adding that the move creates a perception that relief was given to north Indian drivers. Another leader questioned the need for a 12-month extension to answer simple questions, reaffirming the party's commitment to Marathi asmita (pride).
Opposition Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut seized on the discord, suggesting the party's decisions are being overruled by the BJP. BJP sources, however, indicated the relaxation was a strategic move ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, given the significant north Indian migrant population in Mumbai and other financial hubs.
Beyond the language issue, Shiv Sena sources alleged broader interference by the BJP in the functioning of their ministers over the past year and a half. Leaders claimed their decisions are being superseded and that they are not being allowed to function properly, reflecting a growing lack of coordination within the alliance.