Workplace violence affects nearly half of cab and delivery drivers: Survey

Almost 47% of cab drivers and 41.5% of delivery persons encounter workplace violence, with many of the latter urging to end the 10-minute delivery policy. 

According to a survey, reported by PTI, 72 per cent of the gig workers find it difficult to manage their expenses with a substantial percentage earning below Rs 15,000 per month. 

83% of cab drivers work over 10 hours a day, with 31% exceeding 14 hours daily, while 72% find it challenging to manage expenses, with many earning below Rs 15,000 per month. 

The long hours lead to health issues, with 93.3% of cab drivers reporting physical pain and 98.5% of delivery persons experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, and irritability. 

Additionally, 68% of delivery persons are negatively affected by customer behaviour. 

A 'gig employee' is defined as someone engaged in income-earning activities outside traditional employment, per a 2020 Ministry of Labour and Employment report. 

Research director Akriti Bhatia suggests treating gig and app-based workers as employees and ensuring they receive a minimum wage. 

The report also recommended mandatory registration for all app-based delivery persons, ending discrimination against them in public spaces, reviewing terminology for broader understanding, and allowing them to use residential elevators.