ATTENTION Delhi-NCR residents! Swiggy, Zomato, Zepto, Blinkit, other gig workers to NOT WORK on Dec 31; Here’s why

Gig workers have put forward various demands aimed at improving job security and working conditions. Their key demands include are..., read to know.

Gig and platform workers across India are planning a nationwide strike on December 31, New Year’s Eve. The protest is expected to include food delivery workers, cab drivers, and home service workers as they are demanding better pay, improved safety, and fair working conditions. The strike has been called by the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT) along with the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union. Workers linked to major companies such as Swiggy, Zomato, Zepto, Blinkit, Amazon, and Flipkart are expected to take part, according to media reports.

This comes days after a similar strike on December 25, Christmas Day, which disrupted services in parts of Gurugram. However, services in Delhi and Noida were mostly unaffected at that time.

What are gig workers asking for?

Gig and platform workers say they want more security, fair pay, and safer working conditions. Their main demands include:

• Stable income that matches minimum wage laws, so workers earn a fixed and fair amount.
• A clear and fair payment system, with ride-hailing drivers asking for at least Rs 20 per kilometre as a minimum rate.
• An eight-hour workday, with extra pay for any work done beyond fixed hours.
• Social security benefits, including proper insurance to support workers in case of accidents, illness, or emergencies.
• An end to “10-minute delivery” services, which workers say force them to rush, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Safer working conditions, especially during late nights and dangerous weather.

Safety has become a major concern during winter. Workers have asked delivery platforms to stop services after 11 pm when there is heavy fog, saying poor visibility makes driving extremely risky.

Christmas Day strike disrupts services in Gurugram

The strike held on December 25 had the biggest impact in Gurugram, where many residents faced long delays in food deliveries. Several areas were affected, including Badshahpur in Sector 66, Sohna Road, and Sectors 31, 47, and 48.

The disruption happened after delivery workers logged out of their apps together and gathered at busy market places. Around 70 to 80 workers came together at the Rodeo Drive Market Complex in Sector 47. Similar protests were reported at Baani Square in Sector 50, ILD Tower near Subhash Chowk, Eros City Square in Sector 49, and HUDA Market in Sector 46.

Workers said that 50 to 100 people also gathered at other locations across the city to take part in the protest.

Some workers also claimed they faced action from the companies for joining the strike. One delivery executive said his payment details were removed from the app after a supervisor saw him at a protest site. Workers said such actions have created fear among those taking part in the demonstrations.