New Delhi (IANS): The Centre has asked major online food delivery and quick-commerce platforms to discontinue rigid “10-minute delivery” commitments, underlining that the safety of delivery partners must take priority over speed. Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya raised the issue during meetings with representatives of leading platforms, including Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy and Zomato.
During the discussions, Mandaviya advised companies to remove strict delivery-time targets from their platforms and promotional material, stressing that tight deadlines often push delivery partners to take risks on congested roads.
Platforms Assure Compliance
Following the government’s intervention, Blinkit has reportedly removed its “10-minute delivery” claim from its branding across platforms. Officials said other companies have also assured the Labour Ministry that delivery-time guarantees will be taken down from advertisements and social media channels.
The move is being viewed as a step towards improving working conditions for gig workers, who frequently face pressure to meet aggressive timelines, especially during peak hours.
Growing Focus on Gig Worker Rights
The safety and rights of gig workers have come under sharper public scrutiny in recent weeks. Raghav Chadha, an Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP, has been vocal about the challenges faced by delivery partners.
Earlier this week, Chadha shared a video on social media documenting his experience spending a day as a delivery partner in Delhi. Wearing a quick-commerce company jacket and navigating city traffic on a two-wheeler, he said the exercise helped him understand the realities faced by gig workers beyond policy debates.
Support for Social Security and Fair Work
Chadha has also welcomed the release of draft social security rules for gig workers, describing them as an initial step towards recognition, protection and dignity for delivery partners. He has extended support to gig workers who observed a nationwide symbolic strike on New Year’s Eve, demanding fair wages, safer working conditions and social security benefits.
The strike, organised by gig worker unions, saw thousands of delivery partners logging off apps or scaling down work across several states, leading to delays and cancellations on one of the busiest days of the year. Chadha said the demands were legitimate, noting that gig workers form a vital part of India’s urban economy.
