Worker’s Rights in Gig Economy
Dr. Rashima Prabhakar
Dr. Rashima Prabhakar, Worker’s Rights in Gig Economy, Vol. 12 Iss 1 (1), IJLR (2026).
Abstract
The gig economy has rapidly expanded in India, creating new employment opportunities through digital platforms such as ride-sharing, delivery services, and freelance marketplaces. Despite its growth, gig work remains largely outside the scope of traditional labour protections, leaving workers vulnerable to income instability, lack of social security, and limited legal recognition. This article examines the legal status and challenges faced by gig workers in India, focusing on gaps in existing labour laws and the implications of the recent labour codes, particularly the Code on Social Security, 2020. It also evaluates emerging legislative efforts such as the Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers Act and relevant judicial interventions. The study argues for a comprehensive regulatory framework that ensures fair wages, social security, and legal protection while balancing innovation and flexibility within the evolving digital labour market.
Keywords
Gig economy; Platform workers; Social security; Labour law regulation.
