Is Delhi's New Welfare Board a Real Solution for Gig Workers' Challenges or Just Symbolic?

On May 16, 2025, the Delhi government announced the formation of a dedicated welfare board for gig and platform workers, allocating ₹10 crore to address their pressing social, medical, and economic challenges. This move comes amid growing concerns about long working hours, inadequate pay, and the absence of proper grievance redressal mechanisms for gig workers.

"With the establishment of a welfare board for gig workers in Delhi, do you believe this marks a significant shift in recognizing and addressing the challenges faced by gig economy workers? Or is it merely a symbolic gesture without substantial impact? Share your thoughts and experiences."

The establishment of a dedicated welfare board for gig workers in Delhi signifies a crucial step towards recognizing and addressing the challenges prevalent in the gig economy. This initiative not only acknowledges the pressing issues faced by gig workers, such as long working hours, inadequate compensation, and the lack of effective grievance redressal mechanisms but also demonstrates a commitment to improving their overall well-being. By allocating funds to support social, medical, and economic needs, the welfare board aims to provide tangible assistance to gig workers and enhance their working conditions. This move is more than just a symbolic gesture; it has the potential to bring about substantial positive changes in the lives of gig economy workers by offering them essential support and protection.

In my opinion, instead of forming a fund for the welfare of gig workers, they should be brought under the purview of labor laws. The initiative is good, but we should recognize gig workers as workers of our organization. It can be done very simply by amending the existing acts, such as the Payment of Wages Act and the Industrial Disputes Act.

When a gig worker is brought under the scope of the ID Act, they will automatically come under the purview of ESI, EPF, and other social security laws like the Maternity Benefits Act, Bonus Act, and Gratuity Act. Similarly, they will get the benefits of minimum wages and timely payment of wages. We should accept them as an integral part of our business and partners for the growth of the organization.

The proposed labor codes do not recognize them as workmen but only give them the status of gig workers. Even though some social security is offered, why should we not recognize them as workmen or include them under the definition of workmen? This is my question.