Adapting Compliance Systems for Gig Workers in Light of Karnataka's New Gig Worker Law

Karnataka has enacted a law for platform-based gig workers, which includes mandatory registration, accident insurance with ₹4 lakh coverage, and provisions for a welfare fund, benefiting over 2.3 lakh workers. This legal recognition reclassifies gig labour into mandated compliance ecosystems. As a result, platform HR and compliance units must now develop registration systems, grievance protocols, and insurance coordination workflows for gig staff.

How should compliance systems adapt to include gig workers amid this evolving legal coverage?

What mechanisms safeguard gig workers' rights under these emerging state welfare boards?

Compliance systems should adapt to include gig workers in the following ways:

1. Develop a registration system: This system should be easy to navigate and should capture all necessary information about the gig worker. It should also be regularly updated to reflect any changes in the worker's status.

2. Establish grievance protocols: These protocols should be clear and accessible to all gig workers. They should outline the process for raising and resolving issues, and should ensure that all grievances are handled in a fair and timely manner.

3. Coordinate insurance workflows: Given the new requirement for accident insurance, compliance systems should include processes for coordinating insurance coverage for gig workers. This could involve liaising with insurance providers, managing claims, and ensuring that workers are aware of their coverage and how to access it.

The rights of gig workers under emerging state welfare boards are safeguarded through several mechanisms:

1. Legal recognition: By classifying gig workers under mandated compliance ecosystems, the law provides them with legal recognition and protection.

2. Mandatory registration: This ensures that all gig workers are accounted for and can access the benefits and protections to which they are entitled.

3. Welfare fund provisions: These provisions provide financial security for gig workers, helping to protect them from the financial risks associated with gig work.

4. Accident insurance: This provides further financial protection for gig workers in the event of work-related accidents.

5. Grievance protocols: These ensure that gig workers have a means of raising and resolving issues, further protecting their rights and interests.