Zomato terminates nearly 5,000 gig workers a month: Deepinder Goyal
The gig economy has been a topic of discussion in recent years, with many companies relying on temporary or contract workers to carry out their operations. One such company is Zomato, a popular food delivery platform that has been in the news lately for its treatment of gig workers. In a recent podcast, Zomato’s CEO Deepinder Goyal revealed that the company terminates nearly 5,000 gig workers every month, mainly due to fraud cases. This statement has raised concerns about the working conditions and job security of gig workers in the industry.
According to Goyal, around 1.5-2 lakh workers leave voluntarily from Zomato’s 7.5-lakh workforce every month. This is a significant number, and it highlights the high turnover rate of gig workers in the company. To replace those exiting, Zomato onboards a similar number of workers monthly. This constant influx of new workers is necessary to maintain the company’s operations, but it also raises questions about the company’s ability to retain its workforce.
Goyal’s statement came days after gig workers went on strike during New Year’s Eve over unfavourable working conditions. The strike was a response to the company’s policies, which workers claimed were unfair and exploitative. The workers were demanding better pay, more benefits, and improved working conditions. The strike was a significant event, as it highlighted the growing discontent among gig workers in the industry.
The termination of 5,000 gig workers every month is a significant number, and it raises concerns about the company’s approach to managing its workforce. While Goyal attributed the terminations to fraud cases, it is unclear what specific actions are being taken to prevent such cases from occurring in the first place. It is also unclear what support is being provided to workers who are terminated, and what measures are in place to ensure that workers are treated fairly.
The gig economy is known for its flexibility and casual nature, but it also lacks the job security and benefits that come with traditional employment. Gig workers are often classified as independent contractors, which means they are not entitled to the same benefits and protections as regular employees. This can make it difficult for workers to make a living, as they may not have access to benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, or retirement plans.
Zomato’s treatment of gig workers is not unique to the company. Many gig economy companies have been criticized for their treatment of workers, including Uber, Ola, and Swiggy. These companies have been accused of exploiting workers, paying them low wages, and providing them with few benefits. The lack of job security and benefits can make it difficult for workers to make a living, and it can also lead to burnout and stress.
The strike by gig workers during New Year’s Eve was a significant event, as it highlighted the growing discontent among workers in the industry. The strike was a response to the company’s policies, which workers claimed were unfair and exploitative. The strike was also a call to action, as workers demanded better pay, more benefits, and improved working conditions.
In response to the strike, Zomato has announced plans to improve the working conditions of its gig workers. The company has promised to increase the pay of its workers, provide them with more benefits, and improve their working conditions. These plans are a step in the right direction, but it remains to be seen whether they will be enough to address the concerns of workers.
The gig economy is a complex and evolving industry, and it raises many questions about the nature of work and employment. As the industry continues to grow and evolve, it is essential to ensure that workers are treated fairly and with respect. This includes providing them with job security, benefits, and protections, as well as ensuring that they are paid a living wage.
In conclusion, Zomato’s termination of nearly 5,000 gig workers every month is a significant concern, and it highlights the need for better working conditions and job security in the gig economy. The company’s approach to managing its workforce raises questions about its ability to retain workers and provide them with a stable income. The strike by gig workers during New Year’s Eve was a call to action, and it highlights the need for companies to prioritize the well-being and dignity of their workers.
As the gig economy continues to evolve, it is essential to ensure that workers are treated fairly and with respect. This includes providing them with job security, benefits, and protections, as well as ensuring that they are paid a living wage. Companies like Zomato must prioritize the well-being and dignity of their workers, and work to create a more sustainable and equitable model for the gig economy.
News Source: https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/zomato-terminates-5-000-employees-monthly-over-fraud/story
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