Gig economy’s tug of war- rethinking labour rights of gig workers in India
By: Khan, M.D. et al
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Material type: 
BookPublisher: Journal of the Indian Law Institute Description: 65(2), Apr-Jun, 2023: p.109-122.Subject(s): Gig Economy, Labour Rights, Social Security, Financial Stability, Legal Ambiguity, Worker Representation, Minimum Wage Regulations, Healthcare Benefits, Contract Practices, Platform Profitability, Entrepreneurial Freedom, Economic Sustainability, Policy Interventions, Equitable Labour Conditions
In:
Journal of the Indian Law InstituteSummary: The gig economy in India has seen rapid growth, employing millions of workers across various sectors like ride-hailing, food delivery, and freelance services. However, this expansion has sparked debates about labour rights, as gig workers often lack social security, stable wages, and legal protections.
Key Challenges in Gig Workers' Labour Rights
- Lack of Social Security: Gig workers are classified as independent contractors, meaning they do not receive benefits like provident funds, health insurance, or pensions.
- Financial Instability: Many gig workers earn below the national minimum wage when adjusted for hours worked, leading to economic insecurity.
- Legal Ambiguity: Indian labour laws traditionally focus on formal employment, leaving gig workers in a grey area regarding rights and protections.
- State-Level Initiatives: Karnataka has proposed a Gig Workers’ Welfare Fund, aiming to provide social security through platform-based contributions.
- Skill Development Gap: Unlike formal sector employees, gig workers have limited opportunities for career progression and skill enhancement.
Rethinking Labour Rights
To address these concerns, policymakers and labour activists are advocating for:
- Regulatory Frameworks: Clear legal definitions and protections for gig workers.
- Social Security Measures: Government-backed schemes ensuring financial stability.
- Fair Wage Policies: Minimum wage guarantees and transparent payment structures.
- Worker Representation: Platforms for gig workers to voice concerns and negotiate rights.
| Item type | Current location | Call number | Vol info | Status | Date due | Barcode |
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Articles
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Indian Institute of Public Administration | 65(2), Apr-Jun, 2023: p.109-122 | Available | AR132067 |
The gig economy in India has seen rapid growth, employing millions of workers across various sectors like ride-hailing, food delivery, and freelance services. However, this expansion has sparked debates about labour rights, as gig workers often lack social security, stable wages, and legal protections.
Key Challenges in Gig Workers' Labour Rights
- Lack of Social Security: Gig workers are classified as independent contractors, meaning they do not receive benefits like provident funds, health insurance, or pensions.
- Financial Instability: Many gig workers earn below the national minimum wage when adjusted for hours worked, leading to economic insecurity.
- Legal Ambiguity: Indian labour laws traditionally focus on formal employment, leaving gig workers in a grey area regarding rights and protections.
- State-Level Initiatives: Karnataka has proposed a Gig Workers’ Welfare Fund, aiming to provide social security through platform-based contributions.
- Skill Development Gap: Unlike formal sector employees, gig workers have limited opportunities for career progression and skill enhancement.
Rethinking Labour Rights
To address these concerns, policymakers and labour activists are advocating for:
- Regulatory Frameworks: Clear legal definitions and protections for gig workers.
- Social Security Measures: Government-backed schemes ensuring financial stability.
- Fair Wage Policies: Minimum wage guarantees and transparent payment structures.
- Worker Representation: Platforms for gig workers to voice concerns and negotiate rights.
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