Summary
The Government of Karnataka has introduced the Karnataka Platform-Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Ordinance, 2025, establishing a legal framework for the welfare of gig workers on digital platforms. This makes Karnataka the second Indian state to implement such protections, following Rajasthan.
The Ordinance provides pertinent social security benefits, defines gig workers and aggregators, and outlines the responsibilities of a newly established Welfare Board. It emphasizes the need for transparency in contracts and algorithmic processes, ensuring gig workers have clear avenues for grievance redressal and specific rights relating to registration and social security schemes.
Key Points
- Karnataka’s Ordinance sets up a legal framework for the welfare of gig economy workers.
- The Ordinance covers various sectors including ride sharing, delivery, and professional services.
- A Welfare Board will oversee registration and welfare schemes for gig workers.
- Aggregators are required to register and provide detailed data on gig workers.
- This new law introduces a welfare fee to be paid by aggregators to fund the welfare measures.
- It emphasises algorithmic transparency and workers’ access to grievance mechanisms.
Why should I read this?
If you’re interested in the gig economy or are a gig worker yourself, this is a must-read! Karnataka is leading the way in providing protections and benefits for workers in a rapidly evolving landscape. Knowing about these new regulations could help you navigate your rights and responsibilities in this changing work environment. It’s not just legal mumbo-jumbo—it’s crucial info for anyone in the gig sector!