The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU) recently sent a letter to the State’s Department of Labour raising concerns about the alleged exploitative practices of the quick commerce platform, Zepto. The union accused Zepto of paying workers as little as ₹10-15 per order, failing to provide basic labour protections, and emphasizing speed over safety in delivery deadlines. The letter, addressed to the Additional Commissioner of Labour and Zepto’s CEO, highlighted the lack of guaranteed minimum income, arbitrary fines, and poor working conditions faced by delivery partners. Despite these grievances, Zepto has denied the accusations and emphasized its commitment to transparency and fair wages for its workers.
Challenges Faced by Delivery Partners
The TGPWU has been leading a peaceful strike in Hyderabad for the past four days, demanding better working conditions and fair treatment for delivery workers. The union claims that Zepto’s management has been unresponsive to their demands, leading to a stalemate in negotiations. Delivery partners have expressed frustration over the lack of restrooms, clean drinking water, and basic amenities at dark stores, as well as the burden of bearing fuel and mobile data costs. The absence of essential benefits such as ESI, PF, and health insurance has left workers vulnerable to accidents and financial instability.
Zepto’s Response and Efforts to Address Concerns
In response to the allegations, Zepto has refuted claims of low pay and lack of transparency in its payout structure. The company stated that 97 percent of the per-order cost goes towards delivery partners, who reportedly earn ₹100-120 per hour in Hyderabad. Zepto highlighted the availability of incentives, flexible work hours, and additional benefits such as insurance coverage, medical consultations, and rest areas at store locations. The company assured that it does not rush deliveries or penalize delays, and it has taken steps to swiftly address the ongoing strike. Despite these efforts, the TGPWU continues to push for better working conditions and a tripartite meeting involving the labour department, Zepto’s management, and the union to resolve the conflict and ensure fair treatment for delivery workers.