Rs 1 Lakh Fine If Marathi Is Not Taught: Maharashtra Govt Warns Schools

The Maharashtra government has recently adopted a stricter stance regarding the mandatory teaching of the Marathi language in schools. According to a new government directive, schools that fail to follow the regulations regarding Marathi instruction may face a fine of up to ₹100,000. Furthermore, if such a protest continues, a school's official recognition could be revoked in the future. This decision was taken specifically following allegations that certain private English-medium schools were failing to teach Marathi.

We are addressing this issue because language is not only an academic subject; it constitutes a vital element of culture, identity, and one's connection to the local community. Moreover, many parents are keen to understand the implications of these new regulations on schools. Therefore, it is essential to explain—in simple terms—the true significance, specific rules, and future results of this decision.

The Maharashtra government's new GR (Government Resolution) explicitly states that action will be taken against schools that fail to follow the regulations regarding the teaching of Marathi. This decision is specifically aimed at schools that lack Marathi teachers or where the language is not being taught on a regular basis. Schools failing to adhere to these rules may face fines of up to ₹1 lakh. This is not merely a one-time warning; rather, the resolution outlines a phased approach to implementing high measures.

The Divisional Deputy Directors of Education will oversee this entire matter. They will verify the complaints and take appropriate action if necessary. The government has established a specific procedure for this purpose: first, a notice will be issued to the school, granting a 15-day window to submit a response; failure to provide a satisfactory explanation may result in a fine; should the rules remain unobserved thereafter, an opportunity to appeal will be provided within 30 days; and if the issue remains unresolved even after this stage, the process of revoking the school's recognition may be initiated, effective from the subsequent academic year.

The Maharashtra government recently announced that taxi and auto-rickshaw drivers must pass both oral and written examinations in the Marathi language. It has also been expressed that the licenses of those unable to do so will be revoked. This indicates that the government has adopted a strict stance regarding the use of the language.