Telangana gig employees’ union flags ‘low wages, exploitation’ at Zepto in letter to labour dept; Zepto reacts – OXBIG NEWS NETWORK-OxBig News Network

NEW DELHI: The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU) has raised issues with the state’s Labour Department concerning alleged “exploitative practices” by Zepto. The fast commerce platform has denied these allegations.In a letter to officers and Zepto’s CEO, the union claimed employees are denied fundamental labour protections regardless of their key function in deliveries. Zepto has rejected the allegations.“The per-delivery charge has been drastically lowered, with employees incomes as little as Rs 10-15 per order. There isn’t any assured minimal earnings regardless of lengthy working hours,” the letter learn.“The 10-15 minute supply deadlines drive employees to drive at unsafe speeds, rising the danger of street accidents. Speed is prioritised over security,” it added.The union reported points together with arbitrary penalties, unclear ranking programs, and account blocks with out correct grievance procedures. TGPWU famous the absence of fundamental amenities at darkish shops and highlighted that supply companions bear operational bills themselves.“Workers aren’t offered ESI, PF, medical insurance, or any type of accident protection regardless of their susceptible working circumstances,” it stated.The union talked about an ongoing four-day peaceable protest in Hyderabad, stating that Zepto’s administration has not responded to employees’ issues.TGPWU requested the labour division to analyze, guarantee minimal wage compliance, and facilitate discussions between all events to resolve the strike.Responding to PTI, Zepto said that 97% of order prices are allotted to supply companions.Zepto confirmed addressing the strike promptly and detailed its welfare provisions: “Delivery companions in Hyderabad presently earn Rs 100-120 per hour, and these earnings have remained constant in current weeks. Our payouts are clear, with 2X incentives for peak summer season shifts and full flexibility to decide on work hours. Allegations of low or inconsistent pay are merely unfaithful,” it stated.Zepto responded to the strike, saying it was resolved rapidly. The firm said that it doesn’t stress supply companions to hurry or penalize them for delays.“Partners are coated with as much as Rs 1 lakh in IPD insurance coverage, free video consultations with docs, and medication reductions. At our shops, riders can entry shaded relaxation areas, clear restrooms, refreshments, and ingesting water — nobody is left trying to find fundamental consolation or shelter, even throughout excessive climate,” it added.