Zomato, Swiggy, Zepto, Blinkit, Amazon, Flipkart Services May See Disruptions as Gig Workers Plan Nationwide Strike on December 31

India’s app-based delivery ecosystem, built on speed and instant access, is set to face a major test on December 31 as gig and delivery workers across the country prepare for an all-India strike. Workers associated with food delivery, quick commerce and e-commerce platforms such as Zomato, Swiggy, Zepto, Blinkit, Amazon, Flipkart and other digital aggregators say the protest is meant to spotlight deep-rooted issues affecting their livelihoods.

As consumers increasingly rely on these apps for meals, groceries and everyday essentials, workers claim the realities of gig work have become more difficult, unsafe and uncertain. The strike, they say, is not against customers but against a system that prioritizes speed and growth over worker welfare.

What is driving the strike?

Delivery partners argue that their incomes have become unpredictable even as platforms push higher delivery targets and longer working hours. Rising fuel expenses, traffic risks and frequent changes in incentive structures have made it difficult for workers to earn a stable living.

A central demand raised by the workers is the immediate withdrawal of ultra-fast delivery models, including “10-minute delivery” promises. According to delivery partners, such models place extreme pressure on riders, forcing them to rush and increasing the risk of road accidents. They are also seeking a transparent and fair wage framework that clearly outlines base pay, incentives and deductions.

Core demands of gig and delivery workers

One of the strongest concerns expressed by workers is the issue of arbitrary ID blocking. They allege that accounts are often suspended or penalized without proper explanation or due process, leaving workers without income and no clear grievance mechanism.

Safety-related demands feature prominently in the strike call. Workers are asking for improved safety measures, including proper protective gear, as well as mandatory rest breaks and reasonable working hours to reduce fatigue and accidents.

Other key demands include assured and consistent work allocation, with workers alleging discrimination driven by opaque algorithms. They have also called for stronger technical and app-based support, especially for resolving routing errors, delayed payments and system failures.

Respect and dignity at work are also part of the charter of demands. Workers want humane treatment from platform companies and fair behavior from customers, saying abuse and mistreatment often go unaddressed.

Demand for social security and regulation

Beyond day-to-day operational issues, gig workers are pressing for long-term job security. They are demanding access to social security benefits such as health insurance, accident coverage and pension provisions, pointing out that gig work currently offers little protection in cases of illness, injury or old age.

Workers have also appealed to both Central and State Governments to step in and regulate digital platforms. They are seeking formal recognition, labour safeguards and clear rules to prevent exploitation in the rapidly expanding platform economy.

What users can expect on December 31

With the strike scheduled for December 31, users of food delivery, quick commerce and e-commerce apps may experience delays, limited availability or service disruptions in several cities. Worker groups say the aim is to raise awareness and push for dialogue rather than cause inconvenience, but disruptions are likely if participation is widespread.