Pragya Khubani & Riti Khandelwal, Unitedworld School of Law, Karnavati University, Gandhinagar
ABSTRACT
Gig economy in India has grown exponentially over last few years and has flourished since the outbreak of COVID- 19. The outbreak upended the traditional working structure and increased the reliance on gig- workers/ platform-based workers to provide essential day- to- day services at door steps. The gig- workers/ platform- based workers emerged as new frontline workers in the country. The lucrative job to earn quick money has now transformed into a primary job, opening ample employment opportunities for the people. However, there is increase in dissatisfaction among India’s gig workers about low wages, dangerous working conditions and unfair treatment in the gig economy. The pandemic has not only given them recognition but also has exposed them at the risk of labor exploitation. Many white and blue collared employees have switched to become gig workers and joined the workforce to stay afloat after the crisis left many of these workers with no source of income. Since, their relationship with the platform expressly does not fall within the traditional definition of employment; platforms are under no obligation to comply with the labor laws. This paper puts light on some of the problems which these workers face and analysis the legal framework around it. Without disregarding the growth of gig workers in the Indian economy, the authors suggest some recommendations that the law enforcement agencies could further consider review and implement them.
Keywords: Gig Workers, Labor Law Employment, Covid-19, Rights, App- Based platforms.
