Marathi must in Maharashtra government offices; non-compliance to face action

In October last year, the central government granted Marathi the status of a classical language. (Representational Image)

The Maharashtra government has issued an order making the use of Marathi compulsory in all government and semi-government offices across the state.

As per the resolution, employees in government offices, local bodies, state-run corporations, and aided institutions must speak Marathi while interacting with visitors, except those from other states or countries, The Times of India reported.

It has been made mandatory to put up boards in front of government offices regarding the use of Marathi in communication.

The resolution states, "This will be strictly enforced. Complaints can be made to the concerned head of the office or department regarding government officers or employees who do not communicate in Marathi."

All official proposals, correspondence, orders, and messages must be in Marathi, the resolution adds.

Government offices, including central agencies and banks operating in Maharashtra, must ensure that signboards, officer names, and application forms are in Marathi.

State-backed companies, boards, and approved enterprises must use Marathi names in their operations. Advertisements issued under government-sanctioned activities must also be in Marathi.

In October last year, the central government granted Marathi the status of a classical language, along with Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali.