Key Points
Gig workers welfare board to be established in Karnataka
5% cess to be collected from platform companies
Representatives from gig worker sector participated in key meeting
Comprehensive bill to be presented to state cabinet
The Chief Minister’s Office said that the state government had been working towards implementing necessary measures for the welfare of gig workers employed in companies such as Amazon, Flipkart, and several other platforms. “During the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Rahul Gandhi had also raised his voice in support of gig workers and their well-being. In today’s meeting held at Rahul Gandhi’s residence, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, along with Minister for Labour Santosh Lad, Minister for RDPR, IT and BT Priyank Kharge, and Minister for Large and Medium Industries M.B. Patil, participated in a comprehensive discussion on the matter,” it said.
It added that the meeting was productive, leading to the decision to establish the Gig Workers' Welfare Board. “It was also decided that a 5 per cent cess would be collected from relevant companies, and the remaining required funds would be provided by the government to formulate schemes and organise programmes for the welfare of gig workers,” it further added.
The Chief Minister’s Office said that in the meeting led by Rahul Gandhi, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and three ministers regarding the welfare of gig workers, three representatives from the gig workers’ sector were also given an opportunity to participate. Rakshitha Dev from Karnataka, Sheikh Salahuddin from Hyderabad, and Nikhil Dev attended the meeting as representatives of gig workers. Rahul Gandhi appreciated all eight key proposals prepared by the Labour Department.
As the next step, a comprehensive bill incorporating all necessary aspects will be presented before the state cabinet for approval. The Chief Minister’s Office said that the Labour Department has already introduced three significant bills, including the Gratuity Bill for Workers and the Cinema Workers' Bill. “Now, with plans to introduce a law for the welfare of gig workers, the unorganised labour sector in the state has expressed great appreciation and congratulated the government for its concern and initiative,” it added.
Comments:
Sanjay R.
2 hours ago
Finally some recognition for gig workers! This is long overdue. The 5% cess seems reasonable if it actually goes to worker welfare programs. Hope they implement this properly 🤞
Ananya P.
1 hour ago
Great initiative! My brother works for Swiggy and the lack of benefits has been stressful. Hope this includes health insurance and accident coverage. The participation of actual gig workers in the meeting is a good sign.
Vikram K.
45 minutes ago
While I appreciate the intent, I'm concerned about implementation. Previous welfare boards have struggled with bureaucracy. The government should ensure this doesn't become another system where workers have to run between offices for benefits.
Neha M.
30 minutes ago
This is wonderful news! 👏 Gig workers have been the backbone of our economy, especially during the pandemic. About time they get proper recognition and support. Kudos to the government for taking this step!
Rahul J.
15 minutes ago
Hope this isn't just political posturing before elections. The proof will be in how quickly and effectively they roll this out. The concept is good but execution matters most.
