We pay for even water, celebrities get paid in crores: Delivery worker
The life of a delivery worker is not an easy one. They are the backbone of the online delivery industry, ensuring that our food, groceries, and other essentials reach our doorsteps on time. However, despite their hard work, they are often treated poorly by the companies they work for. A recent nationwide strike of gig workers has brought attention to the plight of these workers, who are demanding better working conditions, higher pay, and basic safety gear.
One delivery agent, who participated in the strike, expressed his frustration with the system. “Companies pay crores to celebrities for ads,” he said, “but delivery partners have to pay for everything, including helmets and water. Why can’t they provide us basic safety gear and water?” He added that he has been working since 2022, and his earnings have only declined. This is a stark contrast to the millions of rupees spent on advertising and promotional activities by these companies.
The delivery agent’s statement highlights the stark inequality between the treatment of gig workers and the privileges enjoyed by celebrities. While companies are willing to shell out large sums of money to get a celebrity to endorse their brand, they seem to be unwilling to provide their workers with even the most basic necessities. This is not only unfair but also reflects a complete lack of regard for the well-being of their workers.
The issue of safety gear is a critical one. Delivery workers are often required to navigate through heavy traffic, inclement weather, and other hazardous conditions to deliver packages. Without proper safety gear, such as helmets and reflective vests, they are putting their lives at risk. It is the responsibility of the companies to provide their workers with the necessary safety equipment, but instead, they are forcing them to bear the cost themselves.
Moreover, the fact that delivery workers have to pay for their own water is a shocking revelation. Water is a basic necessity, and it is inhumane to expect workers to pay for it out of their own pockets. This is especially true considering the long hours and physically demanding nature of their work. It is not too much to expect companies to provide their workers with access to clean drinking water, especially when they are willing to spend millions on advertising and promotional activities.
The decline in earnings of delivery workers is also a major concern. Despite the increasing demand for online delivery services, the workers are not seeing a corresponding increase in their pay. In fact, many of them are seeing their earnings decline, making it difficult for them to make ends meet. This is a clear indication that the business model of these companies is flawed, and they need to rethink their priorities.
The nationwide strike of gig workers is a wake-up call for companies to take notice of the plight of their workers. It is time for them to recognize the value of their workers and treat them with dignity and respect. Providing basic safety gear and water is the least that companies can do to show their appreciation for the hard work and dedication of their workers.
Furthermore, the government also needs to step in and regulate the gig economy. There is a need for laws and regulations that protect the rights of gig workers and ensure that they are treated fairly. This includes providing them with access to social security benefits, fair pay, and safe working conditions.
In conclusion, the statement of the delivery agent highlights the stark inequality between the treatment of gig workers and the privileges enjoyed by celebrities. It is time for companies to rethink their priorities and treat their workers with dignity and respect. Providing basic safety gear and water is the least that companies can do to show their appreciation for the hard work and dedication of their workers. The government also needs to step in and regulate the gig economy to ensure that the rights of gig workers are protected.
As we go about our daily lives, ordering food and other essentials online, let us not forget the workers who make it all possible. Let us recognize the value of their work and demand that companies treat them with fairness and respect. It is time for a change, and it is time for us to stand in solidarity with the gig workers who are fighting for their rights.
About the Author
