A stark report released by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers' Union (TGPWU) has laid bare the precarious working conditions faced by thousands of app-based service workers in Hyderabad. Despite the city's booming digital economy, these workers operate with minimal safeguards, leaving them vulnerable to sudden income loss and unfair treatment.
Student-Led Study Uncovers Systemic Gaps
The findings are based on a unique study conducted by Class 9 students from Hyderabad, who personally interviewed 60 delivery and service providers working for major platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, Rapido, and Urban Company. Their research documents not isolated incidents, but what they term as defining features of the gig work ecosystem in the city.
A shocking 45% of the workers surveyed reported having their IDs blocked or accounts suspended, frequently without any clear explanation from the platforms. This arbitrary action directly cuts off their livelihood without recourse. The grievance systems, where they exist, were found to be largely dysfunctional.
Broken Systems and Missing Safety Nets
The data reveals a systemic failure in support mechanisms. A significant majority, 66%, stated that their platforms lacked functional grievance redressal channels. Furthermore, 56% were unable to reach a company representative when they encountered problems on the job.
Beyond platform policies, workers face external hurdles. The study notes that 24 workers reported facing harassment or fines from police while performing their duties. Basic worker benefits are virtually non-existent for many; 23 respondents confirmed they had no access to health insurance, paid leave, or accident coverage provided by the aggregator companies.
Many workers described the complaint-handling process as "punitive," where platforms take immediate disciplinary action based solely on customer feedback, without investigating the worker's side of the story.
A Call for Dignity and Regulation
The union clarifies that the workers' demands are fundamental. They seek fair and transparent pay structures, protection from arbitrary penalties, emergency support, effective grievance channels, and stronger social security measures.
Shaik Salauddin, National President of TGPWU, emphasized the urgent need for intervention. "The absence of basic worker protections – whether grievance systems, social security, or fair wages – leaves this workforce highly vulnerable to exploitation and financial instability," he said. "It is imperative the government intervenes with robust regulations to ensure fairness, dignity, and security for this rapidly growing workforce segment."
The report underscores a critical contradiction in Hyderabad's tech-driven growth: the very engines of its modern service economy are powered by a workforce operating without the safety nets considered standard in traditional employment.
