Maharashtra makes Marathi mandatory for revenue quasi-judicial hearings and orders, tightening timelines and adjournments

Orders must be uploaded and signed digitally, no exceptions

Maharashtra has issued a new 29-page SOP making Marathi mandatory in all revenue department quasi-judicial hearings and in the orders issued there. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule said officials must hold hearings at least twice a week, preferably Tuesdays and Fridays, while adjournments will be permitted only once for valid reasons. Interim and final decisions must be uploaded to the e-QJ Court system with digital signatures, with speaking orders due within eight weeks and decisions requiring hearing both parties.