Indian Youth Congress Hosts First‑Ever Gig‑Workers Conclave in New Delhi

On a breezy afternoon in New Delhi, the Indian Youth Congress (IYC) opened its doors to a crowd that was anything but conventional – it was a sea of delivery riders, app‑based drivers, freelance designers and countless others who make up India’s sprawling gig economy. The atmosphere was a mix of optimism and frustration, as participants chattered about long hours, unpredictable incomes and the glaring absence of basic protections.

At the helm of the event were a few familiar faces from the Congress family. Youth leader Udit Raj kicked things off with a heartfelt welcome, acknowledging that gig workers often operate in the shadows of the formal labour market. "You are the backbone of the city’s daily rhythm," he said, his voice tinged with genuine admiration. "Yet you remain invisible when it comes to rights and benefits."

Throughout the day, speakers from both the political arena and the private sector took the stage. Former Minister of Labour, Sanjay Singh, outlined the government’s existing framework, pointing out gaps that leave freelancers without health cover, retirement plans or even a reliable safety net during lean periods. He admitted, almost reluctantly, that “the current statutes were drafted for a different era – one that didn’t anticipate a workforce that lives on demand.”

On the other side, representatives from major platforms – a leading food‑delivery app and a ride‑hailing service – tried to strike a balance. While they highlighted initiatives like “partner insurance” and “skill‑up workshops,” workers in the audience were quick to note the limited reach of such schemes. “I get a cheque for insurance every six months, but it never covers my real needs,” complained Rohit Kumar, a 27‑year‑old delivery boy from Delhi.

The core of the conclave, however, was the open‑mic session where gig workers poured out stories that were simultaneously personal and universal. From a single mother juggling night shifts on a food‑delivery app to a young graphic designer who lost a major contract due to platform algorithm changes, the narratives painted a vivid picture of precariousness.

In response, the IYC drafted a set of demands that read almost like a manifesto: a universal minimum wage for gig work, mandatory social security contributions from platforms, transparent grievance redressal mechanisms, and a dedicated gig‑workers’ liaison office within the Ministry of Labour. The document was signed by over 200 participants, signaling a collective push for change.

Ending the day, youth leader Neha Sharma urged the government to act swiftly, emphasizing that the gig economy isn’t a fleeting trend but a structural shift in how India earns a living. "If we wait any longer, the gap between policy and reality will only widen," she warned, her tone both hopeful and cautionary.

As attendees filtered out into the Delhi evening, many carried with them a renewed sense of solidarity. Whether the congress’s proposals will translate into concrete legislation remains to be seen, but the conclave undeniably put gig workers front and centre of the national labour conversation.