Gig Workers to Go on Strike Against ‘Exploitation’

Context:
Gig worker unions across India have announced a nationwide strike against what they describe as systemic exploitation and exclusion from core labour rights in the platform economy, particularly in food delivery and app-based taxi services. The strike seeks government intervention to ensure legal recognition and worker protections.

Key Highlights:

Nature of the Protest

• Gig worker unions declared a strike highlighting denial of labour entitlements.

• The protest targets food delivery platforms and ride-hailing services.

Demands Placed Before the Government

• The Gig and Platform Services Workers Union (GIPSWU) submitted a demand charter to the Union Labour Minister.

• Core demand: Legal recognition of platform workers as ‘workers’ under labour laws, not merely as “partners”.

Working Conditions & Safety Concerns

• Strong opposition to “10–20 minute delivery mandates”, citing risks to worker safety and health.

• Unions argue such time-bound delivery models encourage rash driving and overwork.

Regulatory Gaps Highlighted

• Absence of a comprehensive legal framework for gig workers.

• Continued misclassification allows platforms to avoid employer liabilities.

Relevant Prelims Points:

• Issue: Exploitation and lack of legal protection for gig and platform workers.

• Causes:

  • Informal nature of platform economy

  • Misclassification as “independent contractors”

• Government Initiatives:

  • Code on Social Security, 2020 (recognizes gig and platform workers)

• Benefits of Regulation:

  • Access to minimum wages, social security, insurance

  • Improved worker safety and dignity

• Challenges:

  • Platform resistance due to cost implications

  • Enforcement across digital platforms

• Impact:

  • Potential restructuring of labour relations in the digital economy

Relevant Mains Points:

• Key Definitions:

  • Gig Worker: Individual engaged in task-based, short-term work via digital platforms.

  • Platform Economy: Digital intermediaries connecting service providers and consumers.

• Constitutional & Ethical Dimensions:

  • Article 21 – Right to life and dignity

  • Social justice and inclusive growth

• Economic Perspective:

  • Gig economy supports flexibility but lacks income security

• Way Forward:

  • Clear employer–employee classification norms

  • Universal social security mechanisms for gig workers

  • Safety-first regulations on delivery timelines

  • Social dialogue among government, platforms, and worker unions

UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):

• GS 2: Social Justice, Governance, Welfare of Vulnerable Sections

• GS 3: Economy, Labour Reforms