A study by Basudev Barman For Telengana GIG and Platform Workers Union
Gig and platform workers are those who use online platforms or apps to find and perform work, such as delivery, ride-hailing, or freelancing. These workers depend on the internet for their livelihood, but they often face challenges due to the frequent and arbitrary internet shutdowns imposed by the government or the poor internet connectivity in some areas.
This research involved an attempt with a group of gig and platform workers to understand their experiences and perspectives on internet shutdowns and internet dead zones. As part of this exercise we also included a workshop where the workers were informed about their data rights and privacy, and how they can cope with the disruptions caused by internet shutdowns and internet dead zones. The report that documents activities, outcomes, and implications of the exercise for the workers’ lives and livelihoods.
The report covers the following topics:
– The background and context of gig and platform work in India, and the existing research on its impact on workers’ rights, welfare, and empowerment.
– The rationale and objectives of the exercise and the workshop, and the methodology used to conduct them.
– The main findings from the exercise, such as the workers’ awareness of the reasons for internet shutdowns, the impact of internet shutdowns and internet dead zones on their work, income, family, health, and well-being, and the gendered dimensions of these effects.
– The main learnings from the workshop, such as the workers’ knowledge of their data rights and privacy, the strategies they use to deal with internet shutdowns and internet dead zones, and the suggestions they have for improving their situation.
– The conclusions and recommendations based on the research project, such as the need for more research and dialogue on gig and platform work in India, especially in relation to internet shutdowns and internet dead zones, the need for more awareness and advocacy on data rights and privacy for gig and platform workers, and the need for more support and protection for gig and platform workers from various stakeholders.
This study was done with the support of The Bachchao Project and OPTIMA Internews