New Delhi- The Gig Workers Association recently applauded the decision of quick commerce platforms to retract the ten-minute delivery pledge. This move has been seen as a step towards acknowledging the immense pressure that tight delivery timelines place on delivery personnel.

A statement released by the association highlighted the detrimental impact of the ten-minute delivery model, emphasizing how it compelled workers to hasten their pace, take unnecessary risks on the road, and work extended hours due to the constant pressure exerted by incentives, ratings, and order allocations on various applications.

Despite the increased workload and risks associated with multi-order deliveries, workers often receive the same payment as they would for a single order. For instance, there have been cases where a worker was compensated a mere Rs 19.30 for delivering two orders simultaneously, thereby exacerbating the risk and burden without any additional remuneration.

Emphasizing the need for a permanent institutional mechanism for collective dialogue among workers, platforms, and government bodies, the association stressed the importance of addressing concerns proactively to ensure worker safety, dignity, and prevent potential conflicts from escalating.

Following discussions with the Union Ministry of Labour regarding the welfare of delivery workers, Blinkit, owned by Eternal, has removed the ten-minute delivery claim from its platforms. Other platforms are also considering similar adjustments to their service offerings.

In response to this development, Aam Aadmi Party MP Raghav Chadda expressed relief, stating that the branding of ultra-fast deliveries had placed real and hazardous pressure on riders. He highlighted the mental and physical stress, risky driving behaviors, and potential threats to the lives of delivery workers and other road users that stemmed from such expectations.

Grateful for the intervention of the Central government, Chadda acknowledged that this move would contribute to enhancing the safety and dignity of gig workers. He recounted his interactions with numerous delivery partners who were overworked, underpaid, and jeopardizing their well-being to fulfill unrealistic promises.

The concerns surrounding health, safety, and income linked to ultra-fast delivery commitments gained prominence after gig workers staged a nationwide strike on New Year’s Eve in 2025, drawing attention to the challenges they face in the gig economy.