Digital Strike by Women Gig Workers
In 2023, women gig workers in India organized a digital strike, calling it a “Black Diwali”.
The strike, led by the Gig and Platform Services Workers Union (GIPSWU), aimed to highlight exploitative labor practices in the gig economy.
Exploitation in the Gig Economy
Gig workers argue that platform companies’ discounts come at the expense of their wages and working conditions.
The rapid growth of platform startups is seen as fueled by the exploitation of workers and venture capital funding, with little focus on sustainable profit models.
Gig workers are contributing significantly to India’s GDP (over 60%), yet their labor is often undervalued.
Struggles of Women Gig Workers
Women in gig work face significant challenges due to age-old patriarchal structures, being limited to jobs like beauticians, cooks, or housekeepers.
Women often face unfair ratings and are punished if they refuse “auto-assigned” jobs, which can lead to being blocked or fired.
Many women workers are survivors of domestic violence or are single mothers, making them more vulnerable to exploitation by platform companies.
False Promises of ‘Autonomy’
Gig platforms promise women “freedom” to choose working hours and balance family life, but this autonomy is misleading.
Women face high financial pressures, including transportation costs, product expenses, and platform fees, with little to no social security or benefits.
The system offers a false sense of control, leaving many women without sufficient earnings or security.
Government’s Lack of Action
The Indian state lacks effective systems to prevent anti-labor practices and allows platforms to exploit workers without accountability.
There is no strong data privacy law to protect workers, allowing platforms to operate with little regulation.
Gig workers, particularly women, are often overlooked in national campaigns like “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” despite their vital economic contributions.
Need for Long-Term Strategy
GIPSWU’s digital strike has boosted the confidence of gig workers and shown that grassroots organizing is powerful.
The union’s long-term goal is to negotiate for better policies, laws, and protections for gig workers.
The strike has inspired gig workers globally, reinforcing the need for continued resistance against exploitation.
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