App-Based Taxi Drivers, Including Ola and Uber, Plan Day-Long Strike
On February 7, app-based drivers across India staged a nationwide strike to address concerns over wages and working conditions. The protest was organized by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union and the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT), targeting major companies like Ola, Uber, Rapido, and Porter.
Reasons Behind the Strike
Unions argue that without minimum base fares, companies manipulate fares, forcing drivers to work longer hours for shrinking income. They believe this exploitation is exacerbated by a lack of government intervention.
Statements from Union Leaders
- Shaik Salauddin, president of TGPWU, criticized the absence of government action, saying it has worsened working conditions for gig workers.
- He emphasized that existing guidelines require consultation with recognized unions before fare changes.
Related Protests and Support
The February 7 strike coincided with a day-long action led by the Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha, focusing on illegal bike taxi services and issues regarding mandatory panic button installations. Drivers reported financial strain due to conflicting regulations around panic button devices.
Financial Burden on Drivers
- Many drivers are forced to replace panic button devices at a significant cost, estimated at Rs 12,000, due to state classifications of approved providers.
- This has caused a considerable financial burden for cab operators amid already declining incomes.
Impact and Public Response
While the strike aimed to keep vehicles off the road, many app-based services such as Uber and Ola continued operations in several locations. Despite this, the strike successfully garnered attention to the issues faced by gig workers.
Prior Strikes and Ongoing Concerns
The strike follows a series of nationwide actions, including a December 31 protest by delivery workers highlighting low wages and inadequate social security. Union representatives stress the need for stronger legal protections in the gig economy.
Political Engagement
During the protests, a delegation of gig workers met with Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, advocating for stronger regulations and central legislation. Salauddin noted the importance of statutory protections and praised Karnataka for implementing progressive laws for gig workers.
Future Actions
Union leaders have vowed to continue their protests until significant changes are made regarding fare regulations and protections for workers in the app-based transport and delivery sector.
