Hyderabad: A new impact evaluation report by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) has revealed that 14% of workers participating in union protests received direct threats from platform companies, including warnings of ID deactivation and police complaints for associating with the union.

According to the TGPWU Founder President Shaik Salauddin, the report provides a detailed assessment of both the challenges faced by workers and the union's efforts to address them. The comprehensive 2024 report, based on a survey of 200 gig workers across major platforms, exposes the precarious nature of gig work while highlighting both achievements and ongoing challenges faced by the 10,000-member union established in 2021.

Platform intimidation creates a climate of fear

The report documents systematic intimidation of workers attempting to organize collectively. Of the 53% of surveyed workers who participated in TGPWU protests and campaigns, 14% reported receiving explicit threats from aggregator companies. Many others expressed fear of potential retaliation, contributing to a decline in active membership from 10,000 registered members to just 1,467 active participants.

"Given that a majority of these workers are the sole earners in their households, the fear of losing access to work has discouraged them from formally affiliating with the union," the report states, highlighting the vulnerability that platforms exploit to suppress organizing efforts.

Low wages emerge as the primary concern.

The survey identified low fares as the most widespread issue, affecting 84.38% of respondents. Lack of incentives followed as the second major concern at 34.38%, with workers reporting substantial reductions or complete withdrawal of previously offered incentives.

Other significant challenges include ID blocks affecting 26.04% of workers without prior notice, lack of social security benefits (12.50%), high commission fees charged by platforms (11.46%), and lack of dignity at work (5.73%).

Founder President Shaik Salauddin stated, "This report reflects both our progress and our ongoing fight. Gig and platform workers are demanding recognition, protection, and dignity. Our work is far from over, but together we are building a stronger movement."

The report provides recommendations for expanding coverage and shaping inclusive labour policies in Telangana and beyond.