In a significant development for India’s growing gig economy, major gig workers’ unions have welcomed the Union Government’s recent intervention aimed at ensuring safer working conditions for app-based delivery partners and platform workers. The move comes amid rising concerns over road safety, work pressure, and unrealistic delivery timelines that have increasingly put gig workers’ lives at risk.
Government Steps In on Safety Concerns
The Union Labour Ministry stepped in after repeated complaints from workers’ unions that ultra-fast delivery promises such as 10-minute delivery were forcing riders to take dangerous risks on congested roads. The government reportedly asked e-commerce and quick-commerce platforms to review and tone down such claims, emphasising that worker safety cannot be compromised for competitive marketing Officials underlined that while innovation and efficiency are welcome, platforms must ensure that delivery timelines do not encourage unsafe driving, overwork, or stress among gig workers.
Unions Call It a ‘Long-Overdue Move
Leading organisations like the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT) and various state-level gig workers’ unions described the intervention as a long-overdue and positive step. Union representatives stated that delivery riders were often penalised by algorithms for delays caused by traffic, weather, or infrastructure issues—factors beyond their control.
According to union leaders, unrealistic targets have led to , Increased road accidents Longer working hours under pressure , Mental stress and health issues Income insecurity due to penalties and incentive-linked pay They added that the government’s action shows acknowledgment of gig workers as a vital part of the economy whose safety and dignity must be protected.
Platforms Begin Course Correction
Following the government’s intervention, some major delivery platforms have already begun removing or downplaying aggressive delivery-time promises from their apps and advertisements. Industry sources suggest that more companies may follow suit to align with safety expectations and regulatory signals. This shift is being seen as a rare instance where worker concerns have directly influenced platform policies at a national level.
DIGI MERCH STORE PRINT ON DEMAND
Why This Matters for India’s Gig Economy
India has over 7–8 million gig and platform workers, a number expected to rise sharply in the coming years. Despite their scale, many gig workers operate without formal social security, fixed wages, or occupational safety protections. Unions believe this intervention could pave the way for: Clear safety standards for gig work Better regulation of algorithm-based work allocation Stronger dialogue between government, platforms, and workers Future implementation of social security measures under labour codes
Workers on the Ground React Many delivery riders and drivers have expressed relief, saying the reduced pressure could help them focus on safe driving rather than racing against the clock. Workers say that while fast service is important, it should not come at the cost of their lives.
The Union Government’s intervention marks an important turning point in India’s gig economy. By prioritising worker safety over aggressive delivery timelines, the government has sent a clear message that growth and innovation must go hand in hand with responsibility. Gig workers’ unions see this as a first but crucial step toward fairer, safer, and more humane working conditions—and they are calling for sustained reforms to ensure long-term protection for millions of platform workers across the country.
gigeconomyIndia EventflyersResumes
DeliveryPartners AffiliateMarketing
gigworkersunion Graphicdesigning
gigworkerssafety DigitalMarketing
labourministrygigworkers GraphicReports
Comment
