Gig Workers Strike in Pune: Delivery Agents of Swiggy, Zomato and Cab Drivers of Ola, Uber To Go on Hartaal on October 25, Here's Why

Pune, October 24: In a bid to secure their rights and demand organised labour laws, app-associated cab and rickshaw drivers, along with delivery agents in Pune, Maharashtra, working for companies such as Ola, Uber, Swiggy, Zomato, and Urban Company, are set to stage a one-day "Hartaal" or strike on October 25. They are urging the Maharashtra government to pass an act that protects gig workers from exploitation and provides them with social security and welfare benefits.

According to multiple reports, Keshav Kshirsagar, a member of the "Indian Gig Workers Front" committee, emphasised the need for Maharashtra to pass a law similar to the "Rajasthan Platform Based Gig Workers Act, 2023", which has been pivotal in safeguarding the interests of gig workers in Rajasthan. The proposed legislation aims to provide essential social security measures and benefits to the workforce, with provisions for the establishment of a "Platform-Based Gig Workers Fund and Welfare Fee". This fund is designated to raise resources to support the social security and welfare of gig workers. Swiggy-Zomato Riders Strike in Mumbai: Delivery Agents Go on Indefinite Citywide Hadtaal Over Salary Hike, Other Demands, Says Report.

These efforts seek to counteract the challenges faced by gig workers in terms of exploitation and lack of adequate protective measures. As per Kshirsagar, the proposed legislation also entails the issuance of a unique identity card for each worker, fostering a sense of accountability and transparency within the sector. The failure of the Maharashtra government to address the concerns raised by the workers has prompted this strike, which is expected to disrupt services in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad temporarily. Zomato Delivery Boy Strike, Backed by Eknath Shinde-Led Shiv Sena Faction, Hits Mumbai Today, Know Their Demands.

With a significant number of workers, including cab drivers, autorickshaw drivers, and food delivery agents, operating in the gig economy, the need for formalised protections and regulatory frameworks has emerged as a critical concern for the worker's welfare and security. As the state government faces mounting pressure to address these issues, the collective voice of the workers signals a potential shift towards securing their rights and enhancing their working conditions in the gig economy sector.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 24, 2023 03:23 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).