We pay for even water, celebrities get paid in crores: Delivery worker
The life of a delivery worker is not an easy one. Behind the convenience of online shopping and food delivery lies a complex web of exploitation and neglect. A recent nationwide strike of gig workers brought to light the harsh realities faced by these workers, who are the backbone of the online delivery industry. One delivery agent, who participated in the strike, shared his frustrations with the system, highlighting the stark contrast between the treatment of celebrities and delivery workers by online delivery platforms.
The agent lamented that companies are willing to pay crores to celebrities for advertisements, but when it comes to their delivery partners, they are expected to pay for everything, including basic safety gear like helmets and even water. “Why can’t they provide us with basic safety gear and water?” he asked, his frustration and despair palpable. This is not just a matter of convenience; it is a matter of dignity and respect. The fact that delivery workers are expected to bear the cost of their own safety and well-being is a stark reminder of the exploitation they face.
The delivery agent’s statement also highlights the declining earnings of delivery workers. Despite working tirelessly since 2022, his earnings have only decreased. This is a common complaint among delivery workers, who often find themselves struggling to make ends meet. The promise of flexible working hours and decent pay that drew many to this line of work has proven to be an illusion. In reality, delivery workers are often forced to work long hours for meager pay, with little to no job security or benefits.
The nationwide strike of gig workers was a cry for help, a desperate attempt to bring attention to the plight of delivery workers. It is a reminder that behind the slick interfaces and convenient services of online delivery platforms, there are real people who are struggling to survive. The strike was not just about better pay or working conditions; it was about dignity and respect. It was about recognizing the value and worth of the people who make these platforms possible.
The contrast between the treatment of celebrities and delivery workers is striking. While celebrities are paid crores for endorsing products, delivery workers are expected to pay for their own safety gear and water. This is not just a matter of economics; it is a matter of values. What does it say about our society when we prioritize the interests of celebrities over the well-being of workers? What does it say about our values when we expect delivery workers to bear the cost of their own safety and dignity?
The issue of exploitation of delivery workers is not new. It has been a longstanding problem, with many workers facing similar challenges. However, the recent strike has brought attention to this issue, and it is time for online delivery platforms to take notice. It is time for them to recognize the value and worth of their delivery partners and to take concrete steps to address their concerns.
This includes providing basic safety gear and water, as well as ensuring that delivery workers are paid a fair and living wage. It also includes providing job security and benefits, such as health insurance and paid time off. These are not unreasonable demands; they are basic human rights that every worker deserves.
In conclusion, the statement of the delivery agent highlights the harsh realities faced by delivery workers. It is a reminder that behind the convenience of online shopping and food delivery lies a complex web of exploitation and neglect. It is time for online delivery platforms to take notice and to take concrete steps to address the concerns of their delivery partners. It is time to recognize the value and worth of delivery workers and to treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve.
The strikers’ demands are not just about better pay or working conditions; they are about dignity and respect. They are about recognizing the value and worth of the people who make online delivery platforms possible. As we continue to enjoy the convenience of online shopping and food delivery, let us not forget the people behind the scenes who make it all possible. Let us not forget the delivery workers who are struggling to survive, who are fighting for their dignity and respect.
Let us stand in solidarity with the delivery workers and demand that online delivery platforms take concrete steps to address their concerns. Let us recognize the value and worth of delivery workers and treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve. For more information, visit https://www.news18.com/amp/india/we-are-made-to-feel-worse-than-animals-gig-workers-lash-out-at-online-delivery-platforms-ws-l-9802962.html
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