A video detailing a Blinkit delivery partner's earnings of ₹763 for completing 28 deliveries has sparked widespread debate about the state of the gig economy in India. The video, which went viral across social media platforms, prompted Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Member of Parliament Raghav Chadha to invite the delivery partner for a personal meeting over lunch. The meeting has further intensified discussions surrounding the working conditions and compensation of gig workers in India.
The delivery partner, known as Thapliyal Ji on Instagram, shared a screenshot from the Blinkit app showing his earnings for a day's work. He completed 28 deliveries in nearly 15 hours, earning a total of ₹763, which translates to approximately ₹27 per delivery. This sparked outrage online, with many questioning the fairness and sustainability of such low earnings, especially considering rising fuel and living costs in urban areas.
Raghav Chadha responded to the viral video by expressing his concern over the exploitation of gig workers. He stated that such low pay, coupled with long working hours and a lack of social security, reveals deeper structural problems within app-based employment. Chadha has been a vocal advocate for gig workers' rights in Parliament, raising concerns about their working conditions and demanding fair wages, humane working hours, and stronger social security protections.
Following the Winter Session of Parliament, Chadha invited Thapliyal Ji to his residence for lunch. During their meeting, Thapliyal Ji shared his experiences and the challenges faced by delivery partners, including long and unpredictable work hours, fluctuating income, pressure from algorithm-driven targets, and a lack of effective grievance mechanisms. He also expressed his appreciation for being heard and stated that the gesture made him feel respected.
Chadha reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for policy reforms to protect gig workers' rights and ensure their well-being. He emphasized that India's digital economy should not be built on the backs of underpaid and overworked individuals. Chadha further stated that the growth of the gig economy should not come at the expense of workers' dignity.
The meeting and the preceding viral video have reignited a broader debate about the gig economy in India. Many are calling for greater regulation and protection for gig workers, including minimum wage guarantees, social security benefits, and better working conditions. The incident highlights the need for a more sustainable and equitable model for the gig economy, one that ensures fair compensation and decent working conditions for the millions of Indians who rely on it for their livelihoods.
