Labour unions welcome Karnataka’s welfare board for Gig workers, seek stronger social security

Karnataka’s welfare board for gig workers is welcomed by unions, but concerns arise over the adequacy of proposed funding.

After the Karnataka government formally constituted the Karnataka Platform-Based Gig Workers’ Welfare Development Board, representatives of gig workers’ unions and associations welcomed the move, calling it a significant step towards recognising gig and platform workers as they are entitled to social security and legal protections.

But some members opined that the welfare fee per translation to be paid by platforms may not be sufficient.

Shaik Salauddin, national general secretary of the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT), said, “Karnataka had “shown the way” by institutionalising a welfare board for gig workers.”

“This recognises gig workers as workers deserving dignity, rights and social protection,” he said.

He said the Karnataka model should serve as a precedent for other States and the Union government to establish similar welfare boards and enact comprehensive legislation covering social security, fair wages, occupational safety and grievance redressal for gig and platform workers.

Mr. Salauddin also expressed hope that the board would function in a transparent manner, with meaningful representation of gig workers and their unions in decision-making. “The real success of this board will lie in its effective implementation and its ability to improve the lives of workers on the ground,” he said.