Gig Workers Shut Apps, Bringing Food Deliveries to a Halt in Gurugram

Gig workers across Gurugram staged a significant protest on December 25, 2025, causing widespread delays and disruptions in food deliveries, cab services, and other platform-based operations throughout the city. The action, organized by the Gig & Platform Service Workers Union (GIPSWU), saw thousands of delivery personnel, cab drivers, and home service workers temporarily log off from major apps including Zomato, Swiggy, Uber, Ola, Blinkit, and others. Customers reported unusually long wait times, order cancellations, and unavailability of riders, particularly during peak hours, turning what is typically a bustling festive season into one of frustration for residents reliant on these services.

The protest was part of a broader nationwide call for strike action, though its impact remained largely confined to Gurugram, with reports indicating minimal to no visible disruptions in neighboring Delhi and Noida. Workers gathered at prominent locations across the city, including key commercial hubs and delivery hubs, to voice their grievances. GIPSWU leaders reiterated long-standing demands, including higher base pay per delivery, fair incentive structures, better insurance coverage, improved safety measures (such as protection from extreme weather and customer aggression), and recognition of their rights as employees rather than independent contractors. The union has accused platforms of exploiting gig workers through low wages, arbitrary deactivations, and lack of social security benefits.

The demonstration highlighted the growing tensions between gig economy platforms and their workforce in India, where millions depend on such jobs for livelihood. Gurugram, home to a large concentration of delivery personnel due to its dense urban population, corporate offices, and high demand for quick commerce, emerged as a focal point for the protest. While platforms have not issued detailed official responses as of the morning of December 26, some have reportedly activated contingency measures such as increased incentives to attract riders back online. The localized nature of the disruption suggests strong mobilization by GIPSWU in the Haryana region compared to other cities.

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As the festive season continues, both customers and workers await resolution. The protest serves as a reminder of the ongoing debate over labor rights in the rapidly expanding gig economy, with unions pushing for policy changes and platforms emphasizing the flexible nature of the work model. Authorities have monitored the gatherings to ensure they remain peaceful, while industry observers note that sustained actions could prompt renewed discussions on regulatory frameworks for gig workers in India.

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