Gig Workers In Maharashtra Feel Left Behind In Upcoming Assembly Elections
Gig Workers In Maharashtra Feel Left Behind In Upcoming Assembly Elections
As Maharashtra gears up for Assembly elections, gig workers in the state are expressing their disappointment and frustration over being neglected in party election manifestos. Despite contributing significantly to the economy, gig workers feel their concerns and demands for better working conditions, social security benefits, and recognition of their rights as workers have been ignored.
Nisha Pawar, a woman gig worker and Maharashtra in-charge of the Gig and Platforms Service Workers Union (GIPSWU), highlighted the plight of single mothers and women gig workers, citing the recent death of a single mother gig worker from Telangana who died due to alleged torture and blacklisting by her company. Pawar emphasized the urgent need for social security for women in the state and government vigilance over app-based companies to prevent exploitation.
The gig workforce in India is projected to grow to 23.5 million by 2029-30, with a significant portion from Maharashtra, according to a NITI Aayog report. However, despite this growth, gig workers remain vulnerable and lack legal protections.
Sainath J, coordinator of the All India Gig Workers Union (AIGWU) in Pune, stressed the importance of recognizing gig workers as workers rather than partners, emphasizing that this misrepresentation excludes them from legal protections. He also demanded socio-economic benefits, including pensions, dearness allowances, minimum wages, and access to electric bikes at subsidized prices.
Keshav Kshirsagar, spokesperson of India Gig Workers Front (IGWF), expressed disappointment that none of the political parties have responded to their concerns, despite writing to several leaders. He called for a state-level Gig Workers’ Act, similar to initiatives in Rajasthan and Karnataka.
Demands of Gig Workers:
- – Better Working Conditions: Improved working hours, fair compensation, and safe working environments.
- – Social Security Benefits: Access to healthcare, pension schemes, and other benefits.
- – Recognition of Rights: Recognition as workers rather than partners, entitled to legal protections.
- – Electric Bikes at Subsidized Prices: To reduce fuel costs and contribute to reducing pollution.
As the election approaches, gig workers in Maharashtra remain hopeful that their concerns will be addressed. However, if ignored, they plan to approach the judiciary to push for a law in the state .
