Latest news with #andWelfare)Bill
The Hindu
20-05-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
Gig workers' union seek more protections, greater accountability from aggregators
The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) called for more safeguards for workers, including a fixed minimum payment and greater accountability from aggregators and platform companies, and sought inclusion of specific recommendations in the draft Bill for gig workers. The State government had released the draft Telangana Gig and Platform Workers (Registration, Social Security, and Welfare) Bill, 2025. The union raised concerns over the lack of transparency in algorithmic systems that determine key aspects such as ride allocations and fare structures for workers. 'While we are glad that the Bill has been ciruculated, we are particularly concerned about the algorithms used to determine rides, payouts, and other aspects of work. A vast majority of workers do not understand how these systems operate,' TGPWU office-bearer Shaik Salauddin said. 'An important aspect that we are seeking is more clarity and accountability on the part of aggregators. We also want the minimum remuneration to be included. This should take into account waiting time, fuel costs, which have escalated over a period of time, and distance,' he said. The union also sought mandatory registration of all workers at the onboarding stage, and transparency in algorithmic systems. The unions have called for removal of the expression 'primary employer', arguing that it creates ambiguity, blurs the difference between it and the aggregator. Protecting women workers from sexual harassment is another significant issue that has been sought. The TGPWU recommended that the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Act be integrated into the draft Bill. The Union stated that the draft Bill in its current form makes it unclear whether workers would be protected from sexual harassment. Mr. Salauddin said that their suggestions have received backing from Hyderabad parliamentarian Asaduddin Owaisi, who is now a member of a parliamentary delegation that will travel abroad to present to the international community India's fight against terrorism. In a letter addressed to the Labour Department, Mr. Owaisi endorsed the workers' recommendations, noting that the they would meaningfully contribute to strengthening the rights, welfare, and social security of gig and platform workers in the Telangana. Also recommended are mechanisms for dispute redressal, including provisions for appeals before a State-notified officer.
New Indian Express
12-05-2025
- Business
- New Indian Express
Telangana gig, platform workers call for stronger protection, algorithmic transparency
HYDERABAD: Traditionally, gig and platform workers have been defined as individuals engaged in short-term, freelance work without long-term commitment to any single employer. However, in Telangana's evolving digital economy, this definition is rapidly becoming outdated. A growing number of workers now rely on gig work — delivered via platforms such as ride-hailing, food delivery, and logistics apps — not as a side hustle, but as their primary and full-time source of income. Recognising this shift, worker unions in the state are calling for a redefinition of the term 'gig and platform worker' to better reflect the lived realities and economic contributions of this workforce. It is to be recalled that the state government has taken a step toward recognising and securing the rights of gig and platform workers with the introduction of the Gig and Platform Workers (Registration, Social Security, and Welfare) Bill, 2025. Released for public consultation in April, the government extended the feedback period in response to an influx of suggestions from worker groups, civil society, and legal experts. Many have called for its enactment on Telangana Formation Day (June 2), symbolising the state's commitment to inclusive growth and social justice. The bill proposes a comprehensive legal framework for registering gig workers and providing access to welfare schemes through a newly established Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Welfare Board. A supporting Welfare Fund would be financed via a 1-2% transaction levy on aggregators, along with contributions from the state and other sources. Each worker would receive a Unique Identification Number (UID) to ensure seamless access across platforms. The legislation mandates aggregators to register with the board and disclose algorithmic systems that impact work allocation, performance ratings, and payments. Platforms employing over 100 workers must set up internal dispute resolution mechanisms. A multi-level grievance redressal system is proposed, with penalties of up to Rs 2 lakh and a year's imprisonment for non-compliance.
