Months after the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) issued a notice to the Centre regarding allegations of “anti-labour practices” at an Amazon India warehouse in Manesar, Haryana, Union Labour and Employment Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya has announced that the Government is exploring ways to extend social security coverage for those serving in the sector.

Gig workers, who take on short-term or project-based jobs often for multiple clients rather than being employed by a single company, will be registered on the eShram Portal to facilitate the implementation of these social security measures, said the Minister at a review meeting here.

Dr Mandaviya emphasised the development of a comprehensive strategy to ensure these workers receive the social security benefits they are entitled to.

The Minister also highlighted that companies employing gig and platform workers will be encouraged to lead this registration effort. An online window will be provided for aggregators to streamline the registration process. He underscored the significance of the Code on Social Security, which marks the first formal recognition of gig and platform workers in India. This step aims to acknowledge and formalise their roles within the economy.

The Union Labour and Employment move comes close on the heels of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) suo moto cognizance taken in June  when it launched an investigation into human rights violations of the gig workers at an Amazon warehouse in Haryana, where even basic amenities like restrooms were reportedly missing. The NHRC also demanded answers from the Central Labour Ministry.

Labour associations have accused five warehouses in and around Manesar of violating regulations under the Factories Act, 1948. These cases highlight the broader issue of gig workers’ exploitation by the companies that employ them.

According to NITI Aayog, the number of gig workers could expand to 23.5 million by 2029–30 from the 7.7 million they are at now. The lack of robust legislation addressing new forms of labor, particularly gig and platform work, affects workers, especially women, who often struggle to maintain a living wage and stay in the workforce.