Zepto delivery workers' strike enters fifth day in Hyderabad; TGPWU urges government intervention

Hyderabad: The indefinite strike by Zepto delivery workers in Hyderabad has entered its fifth day, with the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU) calling for immediate government intervention. The union has written to the Labour Commissioner and the Additional Commissioner of Labour in Telangana, as well as to Zepto Co-founder and CEO Aadit Palicha and the company’s management, raising serious concerns about the treatment of delivery workers.

In its letter, the TGPWU highlighted the declining per-order pay rates, with some workers reportedly earning as little as ₹10 to ₹15 per delivery. Despite working long hours, there is no provision for a guaranteed minimum income. The union stated that delivery workers are under intense pressure to meet 10 to 15-minute delivery deadlines, which they say compromises road safety and puts them at increased risk of accidents.

The union also pointed to what it described as arbitrary punitive measures by the company. Workers are reportedly facing fines, account suspensions, and penalties based on customer ratings, without any transparent redressal mechanism. According to the union, these measures are taken unilaterally and without due process.

Adding to their grievances, delivery partners are expected to bear all operational expenses, including fuel, mobile data, and vehicle maintenance. This, the union said, has left many in financial distress. Basic amenities such as access to restrooms, rest areas, and clean drinking water are reportedly missing at Zepto’s dark stores, leaving workers without support during long shifts.

A central issue raised by TGPWU is the lack of legal recognition for delivery workers, who are categorized as “partners” rather than employees. This classification, the union argues, strips them of basic labour rights and protections, including the ability to bargain collectively. The workers also lack access to social security benefits such as ESI, provident fund, health insurance, and accident coverage, despite the hazardous nature of their work.

TGPWU noted that the strike, which has remained peaceful, is taking place at multiple Zepto locations across Hyderabad, including the Ramanthapur dark store. The union expressed frustration over the company’s refusal to engage in dialogue or respond to the workers’ demands.

In its appeal, the union has urged the Labour Department to conduct a formal inspection of Zepto’s operations in Telangana. It also called for enforcement of minimum wage standards, implementation of occupational safety measures, and establishment of a fair grievance redressal system with worker representation. The union further demanded that app-based delivery workers be recognized under labour laws and be registered under the e-Shram portal to receive social security benefits.

TGPWU has requested a meeting with labour officials to present testimonies from affected workers and explore possible solutions. The strike continues, as workers await action from the government and a response from Zepto’s management.

Zepto Delivery Workers' Strike Continues in Hyderabad Over Low Pay and Unsafe Conditions

Delivery workers at Zepto in Hyderabad have entered the fifth day of an indefinite strike, led by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU). The union alleges poor pay, unsafe… pic.twitter.com/Z3d4px2NfU

— Hyderabad Mail (@Hyderabad_Mail) May 24, 2025