The App Workers' Union (AICCTU) staged a protest in front of the Delhi Labour Commissioner's office on 20th June to highlight the increasing exploitation of app workers amid extreme heat conditions. Delivery workers from companies like Swiggy, Zomato, Instamart, Blinkit, and Porter, operating across various parts of Delhi, joined forces to voice their concerns about the relentless exploitation they face, even in the sweltering summer heat.
App workers are forced to work 14-15 hours daily, enduring the scorching temperatures that pose severe health risks. Despite these harsh working conditions, neither the companies nor the Delhi or central government has taken steps to address the exploitation faced by these delivery workers.
Akash Bhattacharya of the App Workers' Union (AICCTU) stated that companies, which spend millions on marketing, are profiting through the exploitation of their workers. "Thousands of delivery workers across Delhi lack basic facilities like drinking water and first aid at Blinkit and Instamart stores. Moreover, delivery workers are not allowed to use the toilets at these stores. Companies force workers to work during the peak heat hours of 12 PM to 4 PM by threatening them with termination," he said.
The union also highlighted the continuous reduction in payments and incentives for delivery workers. Companies like Swiggy, Zomato, Blinkit, Instamart, and Porter have repeatedly cut per-kilometre payments over the past year, while simultaneously raising incentive targets and decreasing the incentives themselves.
"The central and Delhi governments remain silent on the issues faced by app workers," Bhattacharya added. "In April, we submitted a memorandum to the Delhi Labour Commissioner, signed by nearly one thousand app workers, outlining their demands. Yet, no action has been taken."
During the protest, the App Workers' Union (AICCTU) demanded a summer allowance for all app workers to help mitigate the harsh working conditions. Ritwik Raj, General Secretary of the union, emphasised their commitment to fighting for minimum income and social security for app workers. "We will continue to intensify our struggle until our demands are met. The companies and the government must address all the problems faced by app workers," Raj asserted.
The protest on 20 June underscores the urgent need for better working conditions and protections for app workers, who play a crucial role in the city's economy but are often subjected to harsh and exploitative practices. The App Workers' Union (AICCTU) remains steadfast in its mission to secure justice and fair treatment for all app workers.
