The Gig & Platform Service Workers Union (GIPSWU) has urged a nationwide temporary shutdown of app-based services from 12 pm to 5 pm on Saturday. They are advocating for a minimum payment of Rs 20 per kilometre for delivery and transport workers due to the recent fuel price surge. The union highlighted that nearly 1.2 crore gig and platform workers could face financial strain from the increased petrol and diesel costs.
The recent hike in fuel prices by oil marketing companies (OMCs) has prompted GIPSWU to demand better compensation structures. This increase, around Rs 3 per litre, marks the first significant nationwide fuel price escalation in almost four years. The union attributes this rise to the soaring international crude oil prices and the ongoing instability in global energy markets, exacerbated by the West Asia conflict.
Seema Singh, President of GIPSWU, emphasized that the surge in fuel prices, coupled with higher LPG cylinder rates, is intensifying financial challenges for workers already struggling with escalating living expenses. Singh cautioned that without adjustments to earnings to match rising operational costs, many gig workers might be compelled to exit the sector. She urged the government and digital platform companies to enforce a minimum service rate of Rs 20 per kilometre for delivery and transport workers.
Workers associated with platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, and Blinkit are particularly at risk, as they heavily rely on motorcycles and scooters, often working long hours in extreme weather conditions. In December 2025, gig and quick-commerce delivery workers staged a nationwide strike protesting unfair working conditions, low wages, and the absence of social security benefits. During the strike, workers demanded the elimination of the 10-minute delivery option and the reinstatement of the previous payout structure.
