The Gig and Platform Services Workers Union (GIPSWU), India’s first union of women gig workers who work for platforms and aggregators, has announced a ‘digital strike’ on October 31, coinciding with the festival of Deepavali. The union has urged gig workers to power down their devices and observe a day of ‘digital silence’. This strike is set to take place nationwide, with participation expected from major cities like Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai.
The demands put forth by GIPSWU include recognizing gig workers as employees of platform companies, ensuring dignified working conditions, implementing statutory minimum wages, establishing grievance redressal mechanisms, and acknowledging workers’ rights to association and collective bargaining. The Union is also pushing for government intervention to regulate employment in the gig economy through labor laws, extend social security rights such as EPF and pension schemes, and enforce the Maternity Benefits Act within the sector.
“In light of these challenges, GIPSWU’s digital strike seeks to unite gig workers and allies in demanding recognition of their rights,” mentioned a release from the Union. Selvi, a union officebearer from Bengaluru, highlighted, “They say we are free to work whenever we want, but it’s a lie. We are going on strike to show everyone how bad things are for us.” Additionally, Seema Singh, a GIPSWU leader from Delhi, emphasized that the workers are advocating for their rights while others celebrate Deepavali, aiming to raise awareness on the struggles faced in the gig economy.
The gig workers have been vocal about the lack of regulatory mechanisms for their welfare and the exclusion from fundamental worker entitlements. The Union’s initiative seeks to bring attention to these challenges and mobilize support in solidarity for the rights of gig workers across the country.
The move by GIPSWU reflects a larger push for improved working conditions and social protections for gig workers in the digital age, as they strive for fair treatment and recognition within the evolving landscape of the labor market.
In contrast, Singapore’s proactive approach with the Platform Workers Act sets a promising example in ensuring a fair and sustainable gig economy. This legislation focuses on defining the rights, obligations, protections, and representation for both platform workers and operators. Key recommendations within the Act include provisions for adequate financial protection for work-related injuries, enhancements in housing and retirement adequacy for workers, as well as improvements in representation.
The Platform Workers Act not only aims to avert potential conflicts but also exemplifies Singapore’s dedication to establishing a just and equitable gig economy that values the significant contributions of platform workers to society. This stark contrast between the actions taken in India and Singapore brings to light the importance of regulatory frameworks that prioritize the well-being and rights of gig workers, ensuring a more inclusive and sustainable labor market for all stakeholders involved.
