With an estimated 10,000-15,000 gig workers from Maharashtra alone expected to participate, a protest is set to impact major app-based services in cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore. Platforms such as Ola, Swiggy, Zomato, and Urban Company will face significant interruptions, highlighting the challenges faced by these workers.
“We’re treated like slaves, working hard but getting nothing in return,” said Selvi, a Bangalore-based union leader. “We hope this strike reveals the harsh truth of our working conditions.”
The gig economy in India has rapidly grown, employing millions on flexible contracts but offering little in terms of minimum wages, health protections, or security. Gig workers are often subjected to harassment, discrimination, and violence, and are left without benefits like maternity leave, pensions, or insurance schemes.
The GIPSWU is demanding a stronger legal framework to protect gig workers, including social security provisions like access to the Employees’ Provident Fund, pension schemes, and deposit-linked insurance. The union is also advocating for the right to form associations for collective bargaining to prevent exploitation and discrimination.
By staging the protest on Diwali, GIPSWU aims to bring attention to the plight of gig workers during a time of celebration. The union hopes to raise awareness about the need for better working conditions and fair treatment for India’s gig workforce.
The unique form of protest, dubbed a “digital strike,” is part of GIPSWU’s ongoing efforts to demand respect and dignity for gig workers in the country.
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