Should Online Delivery Platforms Abandon '10-Minute' Delivery Pledges to Ensure Gig Workers' Safety?
Synopsis
In a pivotal move, Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has called on food delivery platforms to eliminate '10-minute' delivery commitments, prioritizing the safety of gig workers. This decision comes amid growing concerns for their rights and working conditions.
Key Takeaways
The Labour Minister has prioritized gig workers' safety over delivery speed.
Major food delivery platforms are advised to remove strict delivery time commitments.
Raghav Chadha's advocacy highlights the need for recognition of gig workers' rights.
A nationwide strike underscored the urgency of fair wages and better working conditions.
This initiative marks a significant step in improving gig workers' working conditions in India.
New Delhi, Jan 13 (NationPress) The Labour Minister, Mansukh Mandaviya, on Tuesday urged prominent food delivery and quick-commerce companies to eliminate the stringent '10-minute' delivery time guarantees, emphasizing that the welfare of delivery personnel should take precedence over speed.
Mandaviya engaged in discussions with representatives from Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy, and Zomato in New Delhi, advising them to withdraw strict delivery timelines from their platforms and marketing materials for the sake of delivery workers’ safety.
In light of this intervention, Blinkit has reportedly removed its “10-minute delivery” assertion from all its branding.
All participating companies assured the government they would eliminate delivery-time promises from their advertisements and social media channels.
This initiative is perceived as a major step toward enhancing the working conditions for delivery personnel, who frequently encounter pressure to meet tight schedules on congested roads.
The topic of gig workers’ safety and rights has garnered increasing attention in recent weeks.
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha has been actively spotlighting the difficulties faced by delivery partners.
On Monday, Chadha shared a video on social media depicting his experience as a delivery partner navigating the busy streets of the national capital, expressing solidarity with gig workers.
Clad in a quick-commerce company jacket and riding on a two-wheeler, Chadha was seen managing Delhi’s traffic while delivering packages to clients.
In his post, he stated that he aimed to understand the life of gig workers from the ground level, apart from boardroom discussions.
Earlier this month, Chadha welcomed the introduction of draft social security regulations for gig workers, calling it an initial step towards recognizing, safeguarding, and dignifying their labor.
He also supported delivery partners who staged a nationwide symbolic strike on New Year’s Eve, advocating for fair wages, improved working conditions, and social security.
This strike, organized by unions of gig workers, saw thousands of delivery partners across multiple states logging off apps or scaling down work, resulting in delays and cancellations on one of the busiest days of the year.
Chadha characterized the workers’ demands as just and asserted that gig workers are a vital component of India’s urban workforce and economy.
Point of View
This initiative by the government signifies a critical recognition of the challenges faced by gig workers. The emphasis on safety over speed aligns with broader objectives of ensuring fair labor practices in a rapidly evolving economy. It is essential that both the government and industry stakeholders collaborate to enhance the working conditions and rights of these workers.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the government ask delivery platforms to change their policies?
The government urged delivery platforms to eliminate strict '10-minute' delivery commitments to prioritize the safety and well-being of gig workers.
What actions did Blinkit take after the government's intervention?
Following the intervention, Blinkit reportedly removed its '10-minute delivery' claim from all its branding.
How have gig workers responded to their working conditions?
Gig workers have increasingly highlighted their challenges, including participating in a nationwide symbolic strike to demand better wages and working conditions.
