Gig Workers to Go on Flash Strike on New Year’s Eve

Hyderabad: Gig workers are set to go on a ‘flash strike’ on Wednesday across major cities, including Hyderabad, on the eve of the New Year to protest against concerns related to payments, working conditions and social security.

Labour minister Vivek Venkatswamy on Tuesday urged the Centre to build pressure on aggregators to safeguard the interests of the Gig workers, who risk their lives for delivering the merchandise in 10-minutes.

“Gig and platform workers across the country are reporting concerns related to payments, working conditions and social security, calling for timely attention and resolution. A tripartite dialogue involving all stakeholders can be a constructive way forward to address issues of pay transparency, safety and welfare. The Telangana government believes in engaging with aggregators and workers’ representatives. The state Cabinet has approved the Gig and Platform Workers Welfare Bill, 2025 recently,” the minister said in a media statement.

Key issues being raised by workers included reconsideration of the 10-minute delivery norm and the alleged blocking of worker IDs without valid reasons. “We hope to make it a success by disrupting the operations. We shall continue to highlight our plight by protesting through all peaceful means,” told Shaik Salauddin national general secretary of Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT) to Deccan Chronicle.

Anticipating the impact of the strike, some aggregators have decided to lure youngsters with impressive schemes for New Year to minimise the impact on their operations.

A Zomato advertisement featuring actress Tamanna which appears to target youth provides an opportunity to earn Rs.6,000 within two days December 31 and January 1. While its competitor Swiggy features Actor Amitabh Bachchan in a video advertisement. He makes a strong pitch by highlighting the opportunity for delivery boys to win an e-vehicle through a ‘New Year Mega Lucky Draw’.