We pay for even water, celebrities get paid in crores: Delivery worker
The life of a delivery worker is not an easy one. They spend their days navigating through congested streets, dealing with difficult customers, and facing the harsh elements of nature. But what makes their job even more challenging is the lack of support and care from the companies they work for. A delivery agent, who participated in the nationwide strike of gig workers, recently spoke out about the injustices he and his fellow workers face on a daily basis.
According to the delivery agent, companies are willing to pay crores of rupees to celebrities for advertising their products, but they are not willing to provide their delivery partners with even the most basic necessities. “They pay crores to celebrities for ads, but we have to pay for everything, including helmets and water,” he said. This is a stark contrast to the luxurious lives of celebrities, who are paid handsomely for endorsing products. The delivery agent’s statement highlights the vast disparity between the treatment of celebrities and the treatment of delivery workers.
The delivery agent’s complaint is not just about the financial struggles he faces, but also about the lack of safety and security provided by the company. “Why can’t they provide us with basic safety gear and water?” he asked. This is a reasonable question, considering the fact that delivery workers are the backbone of the online delivery industry. Without them, the entire system would come to a grinding halt. Yet, they are treated as if they are expendable, forced to work long hours in difficult conditions without even the most basic provisions.
The delivery agent’s experience is not unique. Many gig workers face similar challenges, and their struggles are only getting worse. “I’ve been working since 2022, and my earnings have only declined,” the delivery agent said. This is a common complaint among gig workers, who often find that their earnings decrease over time due to the companies’ policies and algorithms. The lack of job security, combined with the decreasing earnings, makes it difficult for gig workers to make ends meet.
The nationwide strike of gig workers is a testament to the growing frustration and dissatisfaction among delivery workers. They are demanding better working conditions, higher pay, and more respect from the companies they work for. The strike is a call to action, a reminder that gig workers are not just machines or robots, but human beings who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.
The issue of gig workers’ rights is a complex one, and it requires a multifaceted solution. Companies need to take responsibility for the welfare of their workers, providing them with basic necessities like safety gear, water, and a fair wage. The government also needs to step in, implementing policies and regulations that protect the rights of gig workers. Only then can we create a more just and equitable system, where gig workers are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
In conclusion, the story of the delivery agent is a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by gig workers in India. Their demands are simple: basic safety gear, water, and a fair wage. It is time for companies to take notice and take action, providing their workers with the respect and care they deserve. As we move forward, it is essential to prioritize the welfare of gig workers, ensuring that they are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
About the Author
