New Delhi: Thousands of app-based cab drivers and delivery workers across India observed a temporary nationwide strike on Saturday, protesting against rising fuel prices and what they described as unfairly low payment rates by digital platforms.
The protest, organised by the Gig and Platform Services Workers Union (GIPSWU), called on workers associated with taxi and delivery apps to suspend services between 12 pm and 5 pm. The union said the agitation was aimed at drawing attention to the financial pressure faced by gig workers due to increasing petrol and diesel prices.
In a message shared on social media platform X, the union urged workers across the country to participate in the shutdown, alleging that app-based companies had failed to increase fares and incentives in proportion to rising operational costs.
The protest comes days after public sector oil companies announced an increase of nearly ₹3 per litre in petrol and diesel prices. Following the hike, petrol prices in several cities crossed the ₹100 mark, significantly impacting drivers and delivery personnel who spend most of their day on the road.
Mohammad, an app-based cab driver quoted by local media, said every fuel price increase directly affects their livelihood. “After paying commission and fuel expenses, very little money remains. Sometimes it becomes difficult to even run the household,” he said.
Several workers claimed that despite rising inflation and fuel expenses, platform companies had not revised earnings adequately. Union leaders warned that if their demands are ignored, a larger nationwide agitation could follow in the coming weeks.