We pay for even water, celebrities get paid in crores: Delivery worker
The gig economy has taken the world by storm, with millions of people around the globe relying on online platforms to make a living. However, the reality of being a gig worker is far from glamorous. A recent nationwide strike by gig workers in India has brought to light the harsh conditions and exploitation faced by these workers. One delivery agent, who participated in the strike, shared his story, highlighting the stark contrast between the treatment of celebrities and gig workers by online delivery platforms.
The delivery agent, who has been working since 2022, expressed his frustration and disappointment with the way he and his fellow workers are treated. “We are made to feel worse than animals,” he said. “Companies pay crores to celebrities for ads, but we have to pay for everything, including helmets and water.” This statement is a stark reflection of the priorities of these online platforms. While they are willing to shell out huge sums of money to hire celebrities for advertisements, they expect their delivery partners to bear the costs of basic safety gear and even water.
The delivery agent’s statement raises a fundamental question: why can’t these companies provide their workers with basic safety gear and water? Is it too much to ask for a company that generates millions of dollars in revenue to provide its workers with the basic necessities required to do their job safely and efficiently? The answer, unfortunately, is a resounding no. These companies have a responsibility towards their workers, and providing them with basic safety gear and water is the least they can do.
The delivery agent’s experience is not an isolated one. Many gig workers have reported similar struggles, with some even stating that they have to pay for their own fuel, maintenance, and repairs. This is in addition to the already meager earnings they receive for their work. The delivery agent mentioned that his earnings have only declined since he started working in 2022. This is a common trend among gig workers, who often see their earnings decrease over time due to various factors such as increased competition, reduced incentives, and higher costs.
The nationwide strike by gig workers is a testament to the growing frustration and desperation among these workers. They are demanding better working conditions, higher pay, and greater job security. However, the response from the companies has been lukewarm at best. While some companies have made promises to improve working conditions and increase pay, these promises have yet to be fulfilled.
The issue of gig workers’ rights is a complex one, with many factors at play. However, one thing is clear: these workers deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. They are the backbone of the gig economy, and without them, these online platforms would not be able to function. It is time for these companies to take responsibility for their workers and provide them with the basic necessities required to do their job safely and efficiently.
The delivery agent’s statement about celebrities being paid in crores for ads while he has to pay for even water is a stark reminder of the disparities in our society. While some people are able to earn huge sums of money for minimal work, others are struggling to make ends meet. This is not just a matter of economics; it is a matter of human dignity. Every worker, regardless of their profession or industry, deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.
In conclusion, the story of the delivery agent is a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by gig workers in India. These workers are the unsung heroes of the gig economy, working tirelessly behind the scenes to deliver food, packages, and other essentials to our doorsteps. However, they are often treated poorly, with minimal pay, no benefits, and no job security. It is time for these companies to take responsibility for their workers and provide them with the basic necessities required to do their job safely and efficiently. We owe it to these workers to treat them with dignity and respect, and to ensure that they are able to earn a living wage and work in safe and healthy conditions.
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