Comments on: Leading the Gig Workers

By: Vinu Pillai

Vinu Pillai — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 16:02:47 +0000

Vivek Sir, as usual captures the essence of the GPW (Gig platform workers) This well researched blog post in the form of an interview is detailed and well researched and highlights the dark areas of GPW. Sir, continues to be so dispassionately passionate about such causes, and he continues his crusade on the matters that matter.
Accolades to Mr Shaikh Salauddin for his contribution to highlighting this cause.

By: Arvind Shrouti

Arvind Shrouti — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 12:44:20 +0000

In this interview, Vivek tried to heartfelt exploration of the immense challenges faced by Gig and Platform-based workers (GPW), shining a light on their struggles and the incredible efforts of individuals like Shaik Salauddin. His journey from a government-contracted driver to a leader advocating for GPW rights is not just inspiring but crucial in today’s gig economy.
The interview vividly captures the hardships GPW endure, battling against the odds imposed by corporate giants like Ola and Uber, who classify them as contractors rather than employees. It’s a distressing reminder of the inequalities these workers face, sacrificing stability for uncertain livelihoods.
Shaik Salauddin’s leadership in establishing organizations such as the Telangana Four-Wheeler Drivers Association and the Telangana Gig and Platforms Workers Union underscores his unwavering dedication to collective action. His initiatives have not only raised awareness about GPW grievances but also influenced laws and policies for their social security and welfare.
His collaborations with political figures like Mr. Rahul Gandhi have yielded groundbreaking strides, including the Rajasthan Platform Based Gig Workers Bill and advancements in insurance coverage and minimum wage guarantees in Karnataka and Telangana.
Despite encountering resistance and physical threats from corporate entities, Shaik Salauddin’s strategic approach of engaging with governments rather than just employers has proven effective. His resilience and strategic vision reflect a profound commitment to justice and fairness for all GPW.
Shaik Salauddin transcends mere activism; it stands as a powerful testament to grassroots organizing against corporate hegemony. It calls upon us to acknowledge and support the ongoing struggle for the social security and dignity of Gig and Platform-based workers—a cause that demands continuous advocacy and solidarity.
From this interview, it became clear to me that in our society, while there are numerous leaders (Netas), only a select few, such as Shaik Salauddin, truly embody leadership. It seems that Vivek aimed to underscore this distinction through the interview, and I deeply appreciate his efforts in doing so. Another key takeaway is that extreme ideologies—whether on the right or the left—do not offer viable solutions. Instead, it is the middle path that holds promise for addressing current challenges within our system. While revolution may not be feasible, reforms are achievable. Ultimately, the interview raises a fundamental question: what kind of society do we aspire to build?

By: Dr. Sharad Sawant

Dr. Sharad Sawant — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 05:55:41 +0000

Well articulated piece on the plight of Gig workers in the context of platform based private transport facility and the journey towards getting justice to the employees from the non- specified aggregators. Thank you Vivekjee. Contribution of Shaik Salauddin on the road towards organising unorganised, which is the only labour security, deserves sincere congratulations and best wishes.
It will be challenging to see that the labour/employees in unorganised sector obtains justice through the forthcoming Labour Coads, keeping in mind the ‘consumer’, though his ‘capacity’ is a complex issue linked to the macro economics policies.

By: vikas shirodkar

vikas shirodkar — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 05:20:42 +0000

Vivek
thanks for sharing this
we all are aware of the issues of the Gig & platform workers but I for one was unaware of the work done in this area
it is heartening to see they have a champion. Of course much needs to be done. But it is good to see the initial steps.

By: Sharad Gangal

Sharad Gangal — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 22:33:30 +0000

The best part is insurance cover. The vulnerability of the occupational hazard is addressed. Also a systematic distribution of income. Good initiative by him. Interview well recorded.
But it has added one more piece of legislation. Hopefully when Labour Code which covers Gig & Platform workers will have consistent provisions. Lastly the passengers should not crib of higher tariff. Ultimately the customer will have to pay.
Lastly does the Act provide for action on errant drivers otherwise it will become one sided? Customer protection should be an integral part. Let it evolve.

By: Naganath Subramanian Iyer

Naganath Subramanian Iyer — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 17:52:13 +0000

Such a lovely and informative interview.
Sir, I commend and appreciate your zest for diving deep into the labour subjects and present to the reader deep insights and perspectives. I loved reading the interview which brings out the journey of both the crusader and the GP workers.

Now that the Labour Codes will become a reality in a short time, this interview is a harbinger for things to come.

Thanks Sir for this wonderful reading enriching us with the latest happenings.

Salutations!!

By: Atul R Sethi

Atul R Sethi — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 15:06:19 +0000

Hi. This interview is an eye opener and also a beacon of hope. It is so true that one person with conviction makes a majority and Shaikh Salauddin is doing just that.

I have personally interacted with many ola and uber drivers and realized how the light in the tunnel turned out to be an approaching train for most of them.

I hope that as in all things , a sense of balance and fairplay gets created in the gig worker ecosystem.

By: Saurabh Gupta

Saurabh Gupta — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 14:02:40 +0000

Good interview. Thanks for sharing your experiences.

I usually chat with the drivers when I take a cab and am not surprised to read the contents.

The concept of free delivery must change for the GPW to earn a decent living.

I do see a rise in fares and with EV’s a lower opex – I pray the drivers get a fair share to earn at least 30k / month for 12 hours of work 25 days / week.

By: monodipchaudhuri

monodipchaudhuri — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 14:01:54 +0000

Thanks Vivek.Courtesy you I’ve found a new hero….Sheikh .Salauddin.The injustice done to GIG workers is simply unacceptable and disgraceful