India's Gig Economy Boom: Delivery Workers Face Dignity Crisis Amidst Rapid Growth

• India's convenience economy is booming, with delivery workers like Permanand juggling multiple platforms (Zomato, Swiggy, Zepto) to make ends meet.
• Despite being essential workers, delivery partners in tier-1 cities report a steady erosion of dignity, facing issues like denied access to lifts and restrooms, and disrespectful treatment.
• Incidents like Deepak being told to climb eight floors with heavy groceries and Pratap being shamed for using a public lift highlight the dehumanizing experiences.
• The gig economy is projected to employ 2.35 crore workers by 2029-2030, but policy debates often overlook the humiliation faced by delivery partners.
• While companies like Zomato claim worker welfare initiatives, unions argue for structural changes to address issues like unpredictable earnings, opaque rating systems, and lack of social protection.

Why It Matters: India's booming gig economy overlooks the human cost and dignity of its delivery workers.