Amid the ongoing row over Maharashtra’s new rule making Marathi mandatory for commercial vehicle drivers, actress Sonam Kapoor has reacted to the controversy on social media. Her response comes as transport officials continue assessing drivers across Mumbai and the surrounding region, with hundreds found unable to speak the language. Let’s learn more about it.
Sonam Kapoor’s reaction
Reacting to the development, Sonam Kapoor commented on a post by a journalist, simply writing, “Huh.”
What the transport assessment found
Since August 20, transport officials have assessed 5,211 drivers, including 3,942 across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Among those checked in the MMR, 722 drivers were found unable to speak Marathi and were subsequently issued notices. The Maharashtra State Transport Department had set August 15 as the deadline for drivers to learn Marathi after making knowledge of the language mandatory.
Drivers go on strike
Mumbai autorickshaw drivers began a three-day strike on Monday to oppose the government’s rule, saying it could increase their financial burden, especially for those with limited formal education. Protesters also blocked traffic on Kandivali Link Road, raising concerns over the language requirement and penalties for non-compliance. Several drivers said older members of the community were finding it difficult to learn Marathi within the given deadline.
What’s next for Sonam Kapoor?
Away from the controversy, Sonam Kapoor is yet to return to the big screen. She married Anand Ahuja in 2018 and welcomed their first son, Vayu, in August 2022, followed by their second son, Rudralokh, on March 29. The actress’ last film was ‘Blind’ in 2023, and she was earlier expected to star in the screen adaptation of ‘Battle For Bittora’.‘Blind’ was backed by Sujoy Ghosh and also featured Purab Kohli, Vinay Pathak and Lillete Dubey in supporting roles. It was released on July 7, 2023.She recently made a public appearance at cousin Anshula Kapoor’s wedding on July 6 in Mumbai.
