Odisha flags concerns over Zepto, BigBasket, Blinkit, and JioMart delivery staff safety

The Odisha government has raised serious concerns over the safety and welfare of delivery personnel working for ultra-fast delivery platforms such as Zepto, BigBasket, Blinkit, and JioMart. In a recent communication, the Commerce and Transport Department directed the Transport Commissioner to take appropriate action based on a letter from the Labour & ESI Department.

The concern stems from the increasing number of delivery riders being subjected to hazardous working conditions as they attempt to fulfill tight deadlines — often as short as 10 to 15 minutes — imposed by these platforms.

The issue was formally raised by a citizen, Amol Beldar, whose petition was addressed to top government functionaries, including the Prime Minister, President, Chief Ministers, and Directors General of Police across all Indian states.

The letter highlights multiple risks faced by delivery workers:

•    Physical injuries due to road accidents
•    Mental stress from deadline pressure
•    Lack of safety equipment and health benefits
•    Exposure to harassment and unsafe delivery environments

The document also calls attention to gaps in legal protection for gig workers, raising questions about whether current laws — including the Employees’ Compensation Act, Factories Act, and Occupational Safety Code — adequately cover them.

It recommends that the Government of India:

•    Establish clear safety standards and training protocols.
•    Amend workplace laws to include gig and platform workers.
•    Set up an independent monitoring authority.
•    Launch public awareness campaigns to promote respect and safety for delivery workers.

The matter is now under review by concerned authorities, with the Odisha government advocating urgent action to protect the rights and lives of lakhs of frontline delivery workers nationwide.