Thu Nov 07 02:42:14 UTC 2024: ## Gig Workers in Hyderabad Dominated by Backward Classes, Union Calls for Accurate Caste Survey Representation

**HYDERABAD, INDIA -** According to the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU), a significant portion of gig workers in Hyderabad, particularly in ride-sharing, food delivery, and e-commerce sectors, belong to the Backward Classes (BCs). The union has urged the Telangana government to revise the nomenclature and categorisation in the upcoming caste survey to accurately reflect the realities of gig work.

TGPWU president Shaik Salauddin stated that 61% of ride-sharing drivers, 71% of food delivery workers, and 80% of e-commerce delivery workers belong to BC communities. The majority of these workers are between 26 and 40 years old. Mr. Salauddin emphasized that gig economy jobs in Hyderabad often attract individuals from marginalized backgrounds, typically with moderate education and family responsibilities.

In a letter addressed to the Telangana government, the TGPWU suggested replacing the term “Daily Wage Workers” with “Unorganised Sector Workers/ Wage Workers” to better encompass the nature of gig work. The union also advocated for a separate classification for gig and platform workers, distinct from traditional self-employed individuals, to accurately reflect their unique working conditions and challenges.

“We have written to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Transport and BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, suggesting these changes,” Mr. Salauddin said. “We believe a more specific questionnaire will provide an accurate picture of the castes and communities involved in gig work. We hope our suggestions will be incorporated.”

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