BluSmart Service Halt: 10,000 Drivers Left in Limbo, Demand Urgent Payments
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Synopsis
In New Delhi, over 10,000 drivers of BluSmart find themselves abruptly jobless after the electric ride-hailing service suspended operations. The Gig Workers Association is demanding overdue payments and compensation for the affected drivers, highlighting significant concerns around corporate accountability and the impact on livelihoods.
Key Takeaways
- Over 10,000 drivers affected by BluSmart's sudden service suspension.
- Gig Workers Association demanding immediate payment and compensation.
- Concerns raised over corporate responsibility towards drivers.
- Ongoing investigations regarding financial misconduct by BluSmart's leadership.
- Drivers calling for job alternatives amid uncertainty.
New Delhi, April 19 (NationPress) More than 10,000 driver partners of BluSmart are now left bewildered and without any source of income after the electric ride-hailing service abruptly halted its operations.
This unforeseen shutdown has not only impacted daily travelers but has also incited fury among the drivers on the platform, who claim they were not given any prior notice.
The Gig Workers Association (GigWA) has expressed serious concerns regarding the sudden cessation and pointed out that drivers are left without clear information about their employment status.
The association reported that numerous drivers are still waiting for their outstanding payments and weekly bonuses of Rs 8,000 that were assured by the company.
“This unexpected disruption has left thousands of drivers without income or clarity regarding their employment status,” GigWA stated.
The organization is demanding immediate settlement of all outstanding dues, along with compensation equivalent to three months’ income for each affected driver to assist them in coping with this abrupt job loss.
This situation emerges following serious accusations against BluSmart’s co-founder, Anmol Jaggi, who is being investigated by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for allegedly misusing funds intended for electric vehicle purchases.
SEBI has initiated a forensic inquiry into Gensol, a firm associated with BluSmart, regarding this issue.
Driver partners report feeling completely uninformed. Many do not own the vehicles they operate and are now anxious about their future.
GigWA has also called for the company to provide alternative job opportunities for the displaced drivers.
“The abrupt termination of BluSmart's services has not only disrupted the lives of its drivers but has also raised questions about the responsibility of platform-based companies towards their workforce,” it remarked.
Nitesh Kumar Das, Organising Secretary of GigWA, cautioned that if BluSmart fails to fulfill their demands, drivers will take to the streets in protest.
Prior to the service suspension, BluSmart had over 10,000 active driver partners on its platform.
