Why is AAP's Raghav Chadha Celebrating the Centre's Draft Social Security Rules?
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Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Jan 4 (NationPress) Raghav Chadha, a Rajya Sabha member from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has applauded the Central government's draft Social Security Regulations, announced on December 30, 2025, under the Code on Social Security, 2020. He characterized them as a significant initial move toward acknowledging, safeguarding, and honoring the contributions of millions of gig workers and delivery personnel.
In his social media update, Chadha extended his congratulations to the workers, stating: "Congratulations to all Gig Workers and Delivery Partners. There is excellent news for you. The Central Government's draft Social Security Rules represent the first step towards recognition, protection, and respect for your work."
He pointed out that although platforms like Zomato, Swiggy, and Blinkit may not have acknowledged their voices, the citizens of this nation and the government certainly did. He referred to this as a minor triumph, yet a meaningful one.
In a comprehensive video message shared on X, Chadha highlighted the importance of collective action: "This progress wasn't solely because I, as a Member of Parliament, advocated for your issues in Parliament -- it materialized because all of you bravely voiced your concerns. While the platforms may not have taken heed, the government and the people of this country certainly did. This is commendable."
He simplified the rules, outlining essential advantages: "First, regardless of whether you work part-time or full-time as a gig worker, you will now receive official recognition as a worker. Second, if you engage with one platform for a minimum of 90 days in a year, or across various platforms for a total of 120 days, you will be eligible for social security benefits."
Chadha elaborated, "There will be compulsory registration on a government platform. This will provide you with a Universal Account Number and a digital ID card -- formal government acknowledgment of your work. No longer can any company obscure your identity or unfairly block you using secretive algorithms."
He continued, "Companies will now be legally obligated to register all their workers, furnish accurate data to the government, and update it every three months. No more excuses like 'We're just a platform' -- they cannot evade their responsibilities."
Furthermore, he discussed funding, stating that a dedicated Social Security Fund is being established, requiring platforms to contribute a portion of their income: "This isn't charity; it's your rightful entitlement to retirement and security benefits."
A Social Security Board will assess challenges and develop schemes. Chadha noted that these modifications pave the way for protections such as accident insurance, health insurance, life coverage, maternity benefits, old-age pensions, and occupational safety.
Describing gig workers as "the unseen engines driving India's economy", Chadha asserted, "I advocate for industry and startups, but I will never support exploitation. Security is not a privilege. Respect is not a favor. Social security is not a charitable act."
The draft comes in the wake of recent strikes and Chadha's advocacy in Parliament concerning workers' difficulties. The Ministry is soliciting feedback for 30-45 days prior to full implementation starting April 1, 2026, with the goal of encompassing thousands of workers.