NewsFlash Daily™
18 April 
After Maharashtra’s Marathi rule for drivers, pressure is mounting in Karnataka to deny or cancel licences of auto and cab drivers who cannot read, write, or speak Kannada
Bengaluru: A fresh language debate has erupted in Karnataka after growing demands to make Kannada mandatory for auto and cab drivers, especially in Bengaluru. Following Maharashtra’s recent move on Marathi-speaking drivers, several transport groups in Karnataka are now urging the state government to introduce similar rules and even cancel the driving licences of drivers who do not know Kannada.
The demand comes amid rising complaints in Bengaluru over communication barriers between passengers and drivers, where arguments, route confusion, fare disputes, and rude behaviour are increasingly being reported.
Kannada Rule Demand Intensifies in Bengaluru
With Bengaluru witnessing a sharp rise in migrant auto and cab drivers, private transport unions claim language issues are affecting passenger safety and daily commuting experiences.
They argue that drivers who cannot understand Kannada often struggle with directions, local addresses, and customer communication, leading to frequent confrontations.
According to transport representatives, stricter language-based licensing rules are now necessary.
Maharashtra’s Strict Marathi Policy Sparks Debate
The renewed push in Karnataka comes after the Maharashtra government announced a major rule linked to Maharashtra Day on May 1.
Under the proposed move, the transport department there is reportedly preparing to cancel or deny licences for auto and cab drivers who cannot read, write, or speak Marathi.
This decision has now triggered similar discussions in Karnataka, where pro-Kannada groups and transport unions are pressing for action.
Letter to CM Siddaramaiah Soon
Private Transport Federation President Nataraj Sharma said a formal letter will soon be sent to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the Transport Minister demanding immediate reforms.
“Drivers who do not know Kannada often misbehave with passengers, mislead routes, and engage in meter fraud. A strong law is needed,” he reportedly stated.
The federation has also pointed to neighbouring Tamil Nadu, where local language understanding is said to be checked during licence renewal procedures.
Statewide Call: ‘DL Only for Those Who Know Kannada’
The slogan of “Driving Licence only for those who know Kannada” is now gaining traction across parts of the state, especially on social media and among commuter groups.
However, critics may raise questions over legality, inclusivity, labour rights, and implementation challenges if such a rule is proposed officially.
Government Decision Awaited
As pressure builds, all eyes are now on the Karnataka government to see whether it introduces a local-language requirement for transport drivers or opts for softer alternatives such as language training programs.
The issue is expected to become a major talking point in Bengaluru’s transport and political circles.
