High and dry, Pg6

Key Highlights:

• On December 31, a strike involving approximately one lakh gig workers occurred across India.
• The Labour Ministry released draft rules for public consultation to implement refreshed labour codes.
• The new rules focus on social security for gig workers but exclude them from wage and working condition protections.
• Platforms are obligated to contribute to a social security fund, but algorithmic rate cuts and incentive structures remain unaddressed.

Detailed Insights:

• The Code on Wages excludes gig work from traditional employment, treating it distinctly and limiting platform obligations.
• OSH&WC (Central) Rules rely on employer compliance via the Shram Suvidha Portal, which doesn't address app-mediated work concerns.
• Gig workers must register on a portal, and aggregators must upload worker details quarterly, with a minimum engagement of 90 days with one aggregator or 120 days across multiple aggregators annually.
• The draft Rules need redesign to ensure accessible and secure social security, including protections for illness, maternity, and demand collapses.
• Rules should specify benefits, dispute resolution, minimum Social Security Fund support, and a time-bound claims process.
• Aggregators should provide workers with periodic statements of jobs, hours, earnings, and deductions, with a mechanism to contest irregular data.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Gig Workers: Individuals who perform short-term tasks or services facilitated by digital platforms.
• Social Security Fund: A fund designed to provide financial protection and benefits to workers, especially in old age, disability, or unemployment.
• Aggregators: Companies or platforms that bring together various service providers or workers to offer services to customers.