Urban Company Criticised Over ‘Insta Maids’ Service for ₹49/hour
Urban Company, a popular on-demand services platform, has faced backlash over its latest service offering, ‘Insta Maids’, which promises to provide domestic help within 15 minutes, starting at ₹49 per hour. The service, which was launched with a series of advertisements showcasing the convenience and affordability of the service, has been met with criticism from many who have taken to social media to express their disapproval.
One of the main concerns raised by critics is the exploitation of workers. Many have pointed out that the price of ₹49 per hour is unsustainable for workers, who would have to work for long hours to earn a living wage. “No maid will enrol at this price,” said one user on Twitter. Another user, who claimed to have seen the ad, called the service “tone deaf” and asked, “Who do you think is going to work for ₹49/hour?”
Another issue that has been raised is the use of the term ‘maid’. Many have expressed discomfort with the term, which is often associated with servitude and subservience. “Can we please stop using the term ‘maid’?” asked one user. “It’s dehumanizing and outdated.” Others have suggested using more neutral language, such as ‘household help’ or ‘domestic worker’.
Despite the backlash, however, there are some who have welcomed the move. “It’s about time someone brought some transparency and affordability to the domestic help industry,” said one user. “Let’s not forget that many people struggle to find reliable and affordable help, and this service could be a game-changer for them.”
Urban Company’s decision to launch ‘Insta Maids’ has also sparked a wider conversation about the need for better working conditions and fair compensation for domestic workers. Many have pointed out that the service is not just about providing convenience to customers, but also about addressing the needs of workers who are often exploited and undervalued.
The issue of worker exploitation is a complex one, and it’s not limited to the domestic help industry. Many workers in various sectors, from agriculture to hospitality, face similar challenges. However, the launch of ‘Insta Maids’ has brought the issue to the forefront, and it’s an opportunity for us to rethink our approach to work and workers.
In response to the backlash, Urban Company has issued a statement saying that they are committed to providing a safe and fair working environment for their workers. “We take all concerns seriously and are working to address them,” said a spokesperson for the company. “We believe that our service has the potential to positively impact the lives of many workers and we are committed to making it a success.”
While the launch of ‘Insta Maids’ has been met with criticism, it’s also an opportunity for us to rethink our approach to domestic work and the people who do it. It’s time for us to recognize the value of domestic work and the people who do it, and to work towards creating a system that is fair and equitable for all.
