In a recent study conducted by Fairwork India, a team of researchers from the International Institute of Information Technology and Bangalore’s Center for IT and Public Policy, alarming revelations have emerged about the working conditions for gig workers in India. The study, spanning 12 e-commerce platforms, sheds light on a critical issue: only three of them have implemented a minimum wage policy.

The Disturbing Findings: The fifth annual study focused on the theme of worker alienation, investigating how working conditions contribute to feelings of isolation and disenfranchisement, especially for workers facing discrimination based on caste, class, gender, and religion. Among the platforms studied, Bigbasket, Flipkart, and Urban Company emerged as the only three that have taken steps to ensure that workers earn at least an hourly local minimum wage after accounting for work-related costs.

A Glaring Gap in Worker’s Rights: What makes this revelation even more concerning is the fact that no platform provided sufficient evidence that workers earned at least the local living wage after work-related costs. This highlights a glaring gap in the protection of worker’s rights within the gig economy, where individuals often find themselves struggling to make ends meet.

Companies Taking Steps in the Right Direction: While the majority of platforms fell short in implementing crucial policies to safeguard their workers’ well-being, two companies, BluSmart and Swiggy, distinguished themselves by institutionalizing regular external audits to detect biases in their work allocation systems. This proactive approach to combating discrimination sets a positive precedent for the industry.

The Five Principles of Fairwork: The study evaluated companies based on five fundamental principles: Fair Pay, Fair Conditions, Fair Contracts, Fair Management, and Fair Representation. These principles were assessed through extensive worker interviews conducted in four cities, as well as evidence provided by the platforms themselves.

The Road Ahead: The findings of this study serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive policy reforms within the gig economy. It is imperative that platforms prioritize fair treatment, reasonable wages, and transparent practices to ensure the well-being and dignity of their workforce.

As the gig economy continues to grow, it is essential that companies take responsibility for the welfare of their workers. The study conducted by Fairwork India underscores the pressing need for e-commerce platforms to implement minimum wage policies and uphold the principles of fairness and equality. It is a call to action for both companies and policymakers to work together towards creating a more just and equitable work environment for all.