India’s fast-growing gig economy is headed for major disruption as delivery and platform workers across the country have announced an All-India strike on December 25 and December 31, demanding safer working conditions, fair pay, and social security protection.
The strike has been jointly called by the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT) and the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union, and is expected to see participation from delivery partners associated with Swiggy, Zomato, Zepto, Blinkit, Amazon, Flipkart, and other major platforms.
Union leaders say the protest is a response to falling incomes, excessive work pressure, unsafe delivery models, and arbitrary account deactivations, which have left millions of gig workers financially insecure.
Falling Earnings, Rising Pressure
According to worker representatives, earnings have steadily declined due to frequent changes in incentive structures, while fuel costs, vehicle maintenance expenses, and unpaid waiting time continue to rise. Many workers allege that during festive and peak-demand periods, platforms push them to work longer hours without guaranteed income stability.
A major point of contention is the 10-minute delivery model adopted by quick-commerce platforms. Unions warn that such targets encourage reckless driving and significantly increase the risk of road accidents and fatalities. “Speed is being prioritised over human life,” union leaders said.
Arbitrary Deactivations and Algorithmic Control
Another serious grievance raised by workers is the sudden deactivation of delivery IDs, often without explanation or warning. Workers say losing app access instantly cuts off their only source of income, with little to no grievance redress mechanism available.
The unions have also flagged concerns over algorithmic discrimination, opaque rating systems, and automated penalties that allegedly favour platforms while pushing workers into unstable and unpredictable earning cycles.
Key Demands of the Strike
Through the nationwide protest, gig workers are demanding:
Transparent and predictable pay structures
Withdrawal of unsafe 10-minute delivery models
Protection against arbitrary account deactivation
Mandatory safety gear and accident insurance
Health insurance and pension coverage
Clearly defined working hours and rest breaks
Inclusion under government-backed social security schemes
Union leaders argue that gig workers currently exist in a legal grey zone, neither recognised as employees nor adequately protected as independent contractors.
Call for Government Action
The unions have urged the Central and State governments to intervene, regulate platform companies, and implement a comprehensive legal framework for gig workers. They are also demanding formal recognition of gig workers’ right to unionise and collectively bargain.
“This is not just a wage protest. It’s a fight for dignity, safety and survival,” union leaders said.
Services Likely to Be Disrupted
While participation may vary across regions, unions say major cities are likely to witness disruptions in food delivery and e-commerce services on both strike days. The timing—during Christmas and New Year celebrations—could amplify the impact.
The strike is expected to intensify the national debate on platform accountability, worker rights, and the future of India’s gig economy.
