Maharashtra Government To Make Police Verification Mandatory For Delivery And Gig Workers
Maharashtra Government To Make Police Verification Mandatory For Delivery And Gig Workers
Mumbai | March 4, 2026
The Maharashtra government is set to introduce mandatory police verification for delivery personnel and gig workers employed by online food and quick-commerce platforms, following concerns related to public safety.
Labour Minister Akash Fundkar informed the Legislative Assembly that formal directions will soon be issued to companies to ensure that no delivery partner is engaged without prior police clearance.
The announcement came in response to concerns raised by MLA Bhimrao Tapkir, who questioned the absence of strict background checks for delivery staff working with major platforms. He noted that several companies rely on third-party contractors and digital onboarding systems, which may dilute direct accountability.
Tapkir highlighted that delivery executives often operate late at night and are deployed across residential areas, raising safety concerns for women, senior citizens and other vulnerable groups. He sought clarification on whether the government had conducted a review and what action would be taken against companies failing to verify their personnel.
Minister Fundkar stated that discussions between the Labour Department and the Home Department had already taken place in light of previous incidents. He explained that while online registration systems require workers to upload identity proofs, vehicle details and other documents, stricter enforcement mechanisms will now be implemented.
Under the proposed directions, companies such as Zomato, Swiggy, Blinkit, Zepto and Amazon, among others, will be required to ensure police verification before assigning delivery duties.
The minister further said that any worker found operating without proper police clearance would have to be removed, and companies failing to comply could face action with support from the Home Department.
The move aims to enhance accountability in the rapidly expanding gig economy sector while prioritising the safety of residents across the state.
