What Happened to the Delivery Rider Assaulted at Zepto Store in Delhi?
Synopsis
A shocking incident in New Delhi has raised serious concerns for gig worker safety after a delivery rider was assaulted and humiliated at a Zepto store. The rider, Rishabh Kumar, was forced to squat as punishment before being brutally beaten. This raises pressing questions about the treatment of gig workers in India.
Key Takeaways
Delivery rider Rishabh Kumar was assaulted at a Zepto store.
The incident raises serious concerns about gig worker safety .
Police have initiated an investigation and are reviewing CCTV footage .
Gig workers are demanding better working conditions .
Labour Ministry proposed a 90-day work threshold for social security benefits .
New Delhi, Jan 12 (NationPress) A delivery rider, identified as Rishabh Kumar, was violently assaulted after being made to squat like a chicken as a form of punishment at a Zepto store located in the New Ashok Nagar area of Delhi, according to police reports released on Monday.
The incident transpired on Sunday in Kondli, which falls under the jurisdiction of the New Ashok Nagar police station in East Delhi. The entire ordeal was recorded by the CCTV cameras present at the location.
As per police officials, the assault supposedly stemmed from an incident where Rishabh took a perfume from the store and applied it on himself, an action that was reportedly observed by other employees working at the store.
Subsequently, the delivery rider faced degrading treatment, during which he was compelled to squat like a chicken before being severely beaten by those present.
The New Ashok Nagar Police Station has filed a complaint regarding the matter and commenced an investigation. Officials confirmed that the CCTV footage is under review, and further actions will be implemented based on the findings.
The police also verified that the victim is currently undergoing a medical examination, and legal measures are being initiated in line with the law.
This incident follows another attack on a Zepto delivery executive, who was allegedly assaulted by two scooter riders in a separate case, raising alarm over the safety of gig workers.
In that case, the delivery agent was attacked by two men following a road rage incident and was left injured on the street.
As incidents of violence against gig workers continue to emerge, discussions regarding their rights and safety are intensifying. The gig workers had staged a nationwide protest on New Year's Eve, advocating for improved working conditions and wages.
In a related move, the Labour Ministry recently suggested a 90-day annual work threshold as a prerequisite for gig and platform workers to qualify for social security benefits under the Social Security Code, 2020.
The draft regulations were released on December 31, marking a significant advancement in extending social protection to individuals in the gig economy.
Point of View
This incident underscores the alarming trend of violence against gig workers in India. It reflects a broader issue regarding their rights and safety, warranting urgent attention from authorities and society alike. The need for comprehensive legal protections and support for these workers has never been more critical.
NationPress
10 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the delivery rider in Delhi?
The delivery rider, Rishabh Kumar, was assaulted at a Zepto store after being punished by being forced to squat. The incident has raised serious concerns about the treatment of gig workers.
What actions are being taken by the police?
The New Ashok Nagar Police have registered a complaint, initiated an investigation, and are reviewing CCTV footage. The victim is undergoing a medical examination.
What are gig workers demanding?
Gig workers are advocating for better working conditions, higher pay, and legal protections to ensure their safety and rights.
Is this incident isolated?
No, this incident follows another attack on a Zepto delivery executive, highlighting a concerning trend of violence against gig workers.
What does the Labour Ministry propose for gig workers?
The Labour Ministry proposed a 90-day annual work threshold for gig workers to access social security benefits under the Social Security Code, 2020.
